Experiencing discomfort when pressure is applied to a tooth is a common symptom. This sensation often indicates an underlying issue, ranging from problems within the tooth to conditions affecting surrounding structures or broader health concerns. Understanding these reasons can help identify potential causes and recognize when professional dental care is necessary.
Tooth-Related Causes
Problems within the tooth itself are common causes of pain when pressure is applied. Tooth decay, or cavities, exposes the sensitive inner dentin. Pressure from biting can stimulate the exposed dentin, leading to sharp discomfort. If decay advances, it can reach the pulp, the tooth’s innermost part containing nerves and blood vessels.
Hairline fractures, often invisible to the naked eye, can develop within a tooth, sometimes referred to as cracked tooth syndrome. These microscopic cracks may not always cause constant pain but can flex under biting pressure, irritating the pulp and causing sudden, sharp pain that quickly subsides. Such fractures can be challenging to diagnose without a comprehensive dental examination.
Pulpitis, inflammation of the tooth’s inner pulp, results from deep decay or trauma. When the pulp becomes inflamed, the confined space within the tooth restricts swelling, leading to increased pressure on the nerve endings. This internal pressure is exacerbated by biting, causing a throbbing ache that intensifies with applied pressure.
A dental abscess is a localized collection of pus from a bacterial infection, typically forming at the root tip of a tooth or in the surrounding gum tissue. Pus accumulation creates pressure within the bone or soft tissue, leading to severe, throbbing pain aggravated by pressure. This condition signals a serious infection requiring immediate dental intervention.
Gum and Surrounding Structure Issues
Issues in the tissues and structures supporting the teeth can also cause pain upon pressure. Periodontitis, a gum disease, involves inflammation and infection of gums and the bone that anchors teeth in place. As the supporting bone and ligaments are compromised, teeth may become mobile or sensitive, causing pain with pressure during chewing or touching.
Excessive force from teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism) strains the periodontal ligaments that connect the tooth root to the jawbone. This stress can lead to tooth sensitivity and a dull ache that worsens with pressure. Constant tension can also cause jaw muscle soreness.
Non-Dental Conditions and Other Factors
Tooth pain upon pressure can sometimes stem from conditions not directly related to the tooth or immediate gum issues. Sinusitis, an inflammation or infection of the maxillary sinuses located above the upper back teeth, is a common example. The pressure buildup within the inflamed sinus cavities can exert pressure on the roots of the upper teeth, causing referred pain that feels indistinguishable from a toothache, especially when bending over or applying pressure. This pain is often felt across several upper back teeth rather than just one.
Temporary sensitivity or pain can occur following recent dental work. Procedures such as fillings, crowns, or root canals can leave the tooth and surrounding tissues temporarily inflamed as they heal. This post-procedure sensitivity typically subsides within a few days to weeks, but during this period, biting or chewing may cause discomfort. Similarly, physical trauma to the mouth, such as a direct impact, can bruise the tooth’s supporting structures or even crack the tooth, leading to pain when pressure is applied until the injury heals.
Seeking Professional Dental Care
When tooth pain occurs upon pressure, seeking a professional dental diagnosis is important. Self-diagnosis can delay necessary treatment for underlying conditions that could worsen over time. Delaying care for issues like advanced decay or infections can lead to more extensive damage, requiring more complex and costly treatments.
A dentist can accurately identify the precise cause of the discomfort through a thorough examination, including visual inspection, gentle probing, and dental X-rays. They may also perform specific tests, such as tapping on teeth or using a bite stick, to pinpoint the affected tooth and diagnose conditions like cracked tooth syndrome. Prompt professional evaluation allows for timely and effective treatment to alleviate pain and preserve oral health.