Discomfort in the back gum area when biting down can be perplexing and uncomfortable. This pain often signals an underlying issue that warrants attention. Understanding its potential causes can help identify why this discomfort arises.
Dental Conditions Leading to Pain
Cavities, particularly those located deep within molars or between teeth (interproximal cavities), frequently cause pain when pressure is applied during biting. As decay progresses, it can reach the dentin, the layer beneath the enamel, or even the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. Biting down then compresses these sensitive areas, leading to sharp or throbbing pain.
A cracked or fractured tooth, which may include hairline cracks, even those invisible to the naked eye, can also trigger pain upon biting. When pressure is exerted on the crack, it can cause slight movement or separation of the tooth fragments, stimulating the pulp and resulting in discomfort. This type of pain is often sharp and momentary, specifically when chewing.
Loose or damaged fillings and crowns can contribute to biting pain, especially if they are old or have decay developing underneath them. An ill-fitting restoration can allow food particles and bacteria to seep into the tooth, irritating the pulp or new decay. Furthermore, a loose filling or crown may shift under biting pressure, leading to direct pain on the exposed tooth structure or underlying gum.
Impacted wisdom teeth can exert pressure on adjacent teeth and surrounding gum tissue, resulting in pain when biting. The eruptive forces and the confined space can lead to a general ache that intensifies with chewing.
Gum-Related Issues Causing Pain
Inflammation and infection of the gum tissue, known as gingivitis or periodontitis, can lead to tenderness and swelling that intensifies with biting. Gingivitis, the milder form, involves gum inflammation due to plaque buildup. Periodontitis is a more advanced stage where the infection spreads below the gum line, causing the gum tissue to pull away from the teeth and potentially leading to bone loss.
Abscesses, which are localized collections of pus from a bacterial infection, can cause intense pain when biting. A periodontal abscess forms in the gum tissue or bone surrounding a tooth, while a periapical abscess develops at the tip of a tooth root. The pressure from the accumulated pus, combined with the inflammatory response, makes any biting motion extremely painful.
Food debris lodged between teeth or under the gum line can exert direct pressure and cause irritation, leading to pain when chewing. This impaction can create a breeding ground for bacteria, contributing to inflammation and discomfort. Even a small piece of food, if wedged firmly, can cause significant localized pain.
Trauma or injury to the gums, from biting down on a hard object or aggressive brushing, can result in localized soreness and pain. This direct damage to the soft tissue makes the area sensitive to any pressure, including that from chewing. The injured area may appear red or swollen and can be quite tender to the touch.
Pericoronitis, an inflammation of the gum tissue surrounding a partially erupted tooth, is a common cause of pain, particularly with wisdom teeth. This condition occurs when a flap of gum tissue (operculum) covers part of the tooth, trapping food particles and bacteria underneath. Biting down can put pressure on this inflamed flap, causing sharp pain, swelling, and sometimes difficulty opening the mouth.
Other Possible Contributors
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders can manifest as referred pain that feels like it originates in the back gums or teeth when biting. Dysfunction in the jaw joint or jaw muscles can lead to soreness and tension that radiates to the areas around the back teeth. This pain can worsen with chewing motions.
Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinuses, especially the maxillary sinuses above the upper back teeth, can cause referred pain that mimics dental discomfort. The pressure from inflamed sinus cavities can be perceived as pain in the upper back gums and teeth, particularly when biting or bending over. This type of pain often accompanies other sinus symptoms like congestion or facial pressure.
Bruxism, the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, can lead to widespread soreness and pressure in the teeth and gums, including the back areas. The excessive forces applied during clenching or grinding can strain the periodontal ligaments that hold teeth in place and cause muscle fatigue in the jaw. This constant stress can make the teeth and gums sensitive to pressure, resulting in pain when biting down.
When to See a Dentist
Persistent or worsening pain in your back gums when biting down warrants professional dental evaluation. Other concerning signs include noticeable swelling, a fever, difficulty opening your mouth fully, or any visible signs of infection such as pus or significant redness. These symptoms suggest a more severe issue requiring prompt attention.
A dental professional can accurately diagnose the exact cause of your discomfort through a thorough oral examination, involving probing the gums and teeth, and dental X-rays. X-rays can reveal issues like deep cavities, bone loss, root infections, or impacted teeth not visible during a visual inspection. Professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment is important to prevent complications and alleviate discomfort.