Discomfort in your back teeth when chewing, from a mild ache to sharp pain, often signals an underlying dental issue. This pain should not be ignored, as it indicates problems requiring professional attention.
Common Culprits Behind the Pain
Dental cavities, or tooth decay, are a frequent reason for back teeth pain during chewing. Bacteria produce acids that erode enamel, creating holes that expose sensitive inner tooth layers. This leads to pain when pressure is applied.
Cracked or fractured teeth are another common cause of chewing pain. These cracks, often microscopic, develop from biting hard foods, trauma, or teeth grinding. Pressure during chewing can cause movement within the tooth, irritating the sensitive pulp and resulting in sharp, intermittent pain.
Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, can also contribute to chewing pain. Gingivitis is gum inflammation, while periodontitis is an advanced stage where gums recede, exposing tooth roots. This exposure makes teeth more sensitive to pressure, leading to discomfort near the gum line.
Worn-out or loose fillings can also trigger chewing pain. Compromised fillings allow food and bacteria to get trapped, leading to new decay or causing pressure and irritation when chewing.
Teeth grinding, or bruxism, often occurs unconsciously, particularly during sleep. Constant pressure wears down enamel on back teeth, increasing sensitivity. This stress can also contribute to cracks, exacerbating chewing pain.
Beyond the Obvious: Other Causes and When to See a Dentist
Other conditions can also cause back teeth pain when chewing. A dental abscess, a pocket of pus from bacterial infection, can form at the tooth’s root or in surrounding gum tissue. Abscesses cause severe, throbbing pain that worsens with chewing pressure, and may lead to swelling, fever, and a foul taste.
Impacted wisdom teeth can also cause chewing difficulties. When these molars lack space to fully erupt, they can push against adjacent teeth or become infected. This leads to pain, swelling, and tenderness in the back of the mouth.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders involve issues with the jaw joint and its controlling muscles. These disorders can cause jaw and face pain that sometimes radiates to the back teeth, making chewing difficult. Symptoms include clicking sounds, limited jaw movement, and tenderness around the jaw joint.
Referred pain from sinus issues can manifest as tooth pain, particularly in the upper back teeth. Upper molar roots are close to the maxillary sinuses. When these sinuses inflame due to infection, pressure can be felt as tooth pain, even if the teeth are not the source.
Seek professional dental care if pain persists for more than a few days, or if it is severe, sharp, or throbbing. Other signs warranting an immediate dental visit include:
Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw
Fever
Persistent sensitivity to hot or cold
A foul taste in the mouth
Addressing symptoms early prevents complications.
Managing and Preventing Discomfort
While awaiting diagnosis, temporary measures can help manage back teeth pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can reduce pain and inflammation. Applying a cold compress to the cheek near the affected area can numb pain and reduce swelling. Rinsing with warm salt water can soothe irritated gums and help remove bacteria. These are temporary solutions, not substitutes for dental evaluation and treatment.
Preventive measures are key to maintaining oral health and avoiding future chewing pain.
Establish good oral hygiene habits, including brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. Brushing removes plaque and bacteria, while flossing cleans between teeth, preventing decay and gum disease.
Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Dentists can detect and address issues early, often before they become painful or require extensive treatment.
Avoid very hard or sticky foods to prevent cracked teeth or damage to existing dental work.
If teeth grinding is suspected, a dentist might recommend a nightguard to protect teeth from excessive force.