Tooth pain when biting or releasing pressure is a common experience, ranging from mild annoyance to severe discomfort. This pain often signals an underlying issue within the tooth, gums, or surrounding structures. Understanding the potential reasons is the first step toward effective treatment.
Understanding the Common Causes
A frequent cause of localized pain when biting is a dental cavity. As decay progresses, it can reach the sensitive dentin layer or the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Pressure from biting stimulates these exposed areas, leading to discomfort.
Small, often invisible fractures, known as cracked tooth syndrome, can cause sharp pain during biting. These cracks may not be visible on X-rays and often extend into the dentin or pulp. When biting, the crack can flex or spread, irritating the tooth’s internal structures and causing momentary pain.
A dental abscess, an infection at the tooth’s root, creates a pocket of pus that exerts pressure within the jawbone. This makes the affected tooth highly sensitive to any force, including biting. Abscess pain typically feels throbbing and worsens when chewing or touching the tooth.
Gum disease, including gingivitis and periodontitis, can contribute to pain when biting. Inflammation and infection of the gums and supporting bone can cause gum recession, exposing sensitive tooth roots. In advanced stages, periodontitis can loosen teeth, making them unstable and painful during chewing.
Chronic teeth grinding or clenching, known as bruxism, places excessive force on teeth and surrounding structures. This pressure can lead to tooth sensitivity, micro-fractures, and jaw muscle soreness. Biting down can then exacerbate this stress, causing generalized or localized tooth pain.
An uneven bite, or malocclusion, occurs when teeth do not align properly. This can cause certain teeth to bear disproportionate chewing forces, leading to pain and accelerated wear. When specific teeth are overloaded, their supporting structures can become inflamed, resulting in discomfort during biting.
Existing dental restorations, such as fillings or crowns, can cause pain when biting if problematic. A filling or crown that is too high can create an uneven contact point, leading to excessive pressure when chewing. Loose or failing restorations may also allow pressure to reach the sensitive underlying tooth structure, triggering pain.
Referred pain from sinus issues can manifest as tooth pain, particularly in the upper back teeth. When the maxillary sinuses become inflamed or infected, the pressure can affect the roots of the upper molars and premolars. This results in pain that may worsen when biting or moving the head.
When to Seek Professional Dental Care
Persistent or severe tooth pain when biting indicates a need for professional dental evaluation. Ignoring such pain can worsen underlying conditions, potentially leading to more extensive treatments. Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent further damage and alleviate discomfort.
Seek dental attention if the pain is constant, sharp, or prevents normal eating. Accompanying symptoms like swelling in the gums or face, fever, or a foul taste also warrant an immediate dentist visit. These signs suggest a serious infection requiring urgent treatment.
Even mild tooth pain that persists for more than a day or two should be assessed by a dental professional. Minor discomfort could be an early sign of a developing problem, such as a small crack or cavity. A dentist can accurately diagnose the cause and recommend the appropriate course of action.
Immediate Steps and Prevention
While waiting to see a dentist, some immediate steps can help alleviate discomfort. Avoid biting or chewing on the affected side to reduce pressure on the painful tooth. Opting for soft foods and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is fundamental in preventing many causes of tooth pain. Regular brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and daily flossing helps remove plaque and food debris, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.
Routine dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential preventative measures. These appointments allow dentists to identify and address potential issues, such as small cavities, early gum disease, or micro-fractures, before they escalate into more significant problems. Addressing habits like bruxism, possibly with a nightguard, can also protect teeth from excessive biting forces.