When a tooth hurts specifically when you bite down, it signals an underlying oral issue. This common discomfort indicates various potential problems. Understanding its origins and addressing this pain promptly can prevent further complications.
Common Dental-Related Reasons
A common reason for biting pain is a cavity, especially if decay has reached the tooth’s sensitive inner pulp. As bacteria erode enamel and dentin, biting down exerts pressure on this exposed or inflamed pulp, causing sharp, localized pain.
Cracked Tooth Syndrome involves tiny, often invisible fractures extending into the dentin. When biting pressure is applied, the crack opens slightly, stimulating nerve fibers. This results in sudden, intense pain that quickly subsides once pressure is released.
A dental abscess, a pus pocket from a bacterial infection, can form at a tooth’s root. This causes inflammation and swelling. When you bite, pressure directly impacts this inflamed area, leading to significant pain.
Pulpitis, or inflammation of the tooth’s internal pulp, is a frequent cause of biting pain. When the pulp becomes inflamed, even slight pressure from biting compresses these sensitive tissues.
Recent dental work can cause temporary discomfort when biting. A new filling or crown might be “high,” creating uneven pressure and sensitivity until the bite is adjusted. The tooth and surrounding tissues may also experience temporary inflammation from the procedure.
Gum disease can also contribute to pain when biting down. As it progresses, it can lead to loss of supporting bone structure around the teeth. This bone loss can cause teeth to become mobile or sensitive when subjected to biting forces.
Beyond the Tooth: Other Causes
Bruxism, the involuntary grinding or clenching of teeth, can lead to widespread tooth sensitivity and pain. The constant, excessive force strains jaw muscles and ligaments, resulting in soreness exacerbated by biting.
Disorders of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can also cause pain that feels like it’s coming from a tooth when biting. Issues with the joint or surrounding muscles can cause referred pain to the teeth, intensifying with jaw movement.
Sinus issues can sometimes mimic tooth pain, particularly in the upper back teeth. When sinuses become inflamed or infected, pressure from the swelling can press on nearby tooth roots, leading to pain when biting.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Seek professional dental guidance for persistent or severe biting pain. This is especially true if accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty eating, as ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening conditions.
A dentist typically diagnoses biting pain with a thorough visual examination of your teeth and gums. They use dental X-rays to look for cavities, bone loss, or abscesses. Bite tests pinpoint the exact tooth and location of the pain, while temperature tests assess the tooth’s pulp health.
Treatment for biting pain varies significantly depending on the underlying cause. A small cavity may require a filling. More extensive decay or severe infection might necessitate a root canal. Crowns protect teeth with large fillings or cracks, while extractions may be necessary for irreparable teeth. For bruxism, a custom-fitted nightguard protects teeth.
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene habits are important for preventing many conditions that cause biting pain. Brushing twice daily and flossing once a day removes plaque and food particles, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Early detection through routine visits allows for timely intervention.