Chewing gum can be refreshing, but it often causes unexpected tooth pain. This discomfort, while seemingly minor, can signal various underlying dental issues that warrant attention. Understanding the cause is the first step toward relief and maintaining oral health.
Underlying Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a common reason for discomfort while chewing gum. This occurs when dentin, the softer layer beneath the tooth’s protective enamel or cementum, becomes exposed. Dentin contains microscopic tubules leading directly to the tooth’s pulp, where nerves and blood vessels reside.
When exposed, these tubules allow external stimuli like chewing pressure or temperature changes to cause fluid movement, stimulating nerves in the pulp and resulting in sharp pain. Enamel erosion, often from acidic foods, drinks, or aggressive brushing, can expose dentin. Receding gums, which expose tooth roots, can also lead to dentin exposure and sensitivity.
Dental Decay and Damage
Tooth decay, or cavities, is another frequent cause of pain when chewing gum. Cavities form as bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode the tooth’s enamel. Once decay reaches the dentin, it can directly irritate nerves within the tooth’s pulp. Chewing gum can exert pressure on this weakened area, pushing substances into the opening or stimulating the irritated nerve.
Beyond cavities, a cracked tooth can also cause significant pain during chewing. Cracks develop from injuries, wear and tear, or teeth grinding. When subjected to chewing pressure, the crack can flex, irritating the pulp’s nerves and blood vessels. This leads to erratic pain, particularly when biting down or releasing pressure, and may also result in temperature sensitivity.
Gum and Jaw Strain
Chewing gum can impact gum and jaw health. Gingivitis, or gum inflammation, can make gums tender, red, and swollen, causing sensitivity to chewing pressure. If unaddressed, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more advanced gum disease. Periodontitis causes gums to pull away from teeth, forming pockets and potentially leading to bone loss, resulting in loose teeth and pain when chewing.
Prolonged or vigorous gum chewing can strain jaw muscles and joints. Repetitive motion can overuse jaw muscles and stress the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This overuse can cause muscle fatigue, tightness, spasms, and radiating pain to the head and neck. Gum chewing is associated with TMJ disorders.
Impact of Dental Work and Gum Type
Existing dental restorations like fillings, crowns, or bridges can cause tooth pain when chewing gum. If a filling is loose, fractured, or has a compromised seal, chewing can apply pressure to the underlying tooth or allow food particles and bacteria to seep underneath. A filling that is slightly too high can also create uneven biting pressure, causing discomfort. Temporary sensitivity after a filling procedure is common, typically resolving within a few weeks.
Gum type can also play a role in dental discomfort. While many artificial sweeteners in sugar-free gum are non-cariogenic, some sour or fruit-flavored varieties contain acids. These acids can contribute to enamel erosion, potentially increasing tooth sensitivity. The sticky nature of gum can also pull at compromised dental restorations, potentially dislodging them or causing pain.
Seeking Professional Dental Advice
If chewing gum consistently causes tooth pain, consult a dental professional. Identifying the cause of discomfort can be challenging without a thorough examination. A dentist can perform a comprehensive assessment, including X-rays, to pinpoint the issue.
Seek professional help if pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling, fever, or prolonged sensitivity. Depending on the diagnosis, a dentist might recommend treatments ranging from desensitizing toothpaste for sensitivity to new fillings, root canal therapy, or adjustments to chewing habits. Early evaluation and intervention can prevent minor issues from progressing into more significant dental problems.