8 Reasons Why Your Tooth Hurts When You Bite Down
Apr 25 , 2024
Experiencing tooth pain when you bite down can be incredibly discomforting and concerning. This type of pain can range from mild discomfort to sharp, intense agony, and it's essential to pinpoint the underlying cause to address it effectively. Here are eight possible reasons why your tooth hurts when you bite down:
Tooth Decay: One of the most common causes of tooth pain is decay or cavities. When decay reaches the inner layers of the tooth where nerves are located, biting down can aggravate the pain.
Cracked Tooth: A cracked tooth can result from trauma, teeth grinding (bruxism), or biting down on hard objects. The pressure from biting can cause the crack to widen, leading to pain and sensitivity.
Abscessed Tooth: An abscess occurs when a bacterial infection develops at the root of the tooth or between the tooth and gum. Biting down can increase pressure on the abscess, causing intense pain.
Gum Disease: Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) can cause the gums to recede, exposing the sensitive roots of the teeth. Biting down can irritate these exposed roots, resulting in pain.
Faulty Dental Work: If you've recently had dental work done, such as fillings or crowns, they may be improperly fitted or have developed issues over time. Biting down can exacerbate discomfort if there are problems with the dental work.
Tooth Fracture: A tooth fracture can occur due to injury, trauma, or biting down on hard objects. Even a hairline fracture can cause significant pain when pressure is applied during biting.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Grinding or clenching your teeth, especially at night, can lead to worn enamel, tooth sensitivity, and jaw pain. Biting down can aggravate these symptoms and cause pain.
Sinus Infection: Surprisingly, a sinus infection can sometimes cause tooth pain, particularly in the upper back teeth. The pressure from biting down can worsen this discomfort.
What to Do If Your Tooth Hurts When You Bite Down:
If you're experiencing tooth pain when you bite down, it's crucial to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. They can perform a thorough examination, including X-rays if necessary, to diagnose the underlying cause of the pain. Treatment options may include dental fillings, root canal therapy, antibiotics for infections, or other interventions depending on the diagnosis.
In the meantime, you can alleviate discomfort by avoiding hard or sticky foods, practicing good oral hygiene, and applying a cold compress to the affected area. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also provide temporary relief until you can see your dentist.
Ignoring tooth pain when biting down can lead to worsening symptoms and complications, so don't delay seeking professional dental care if you're experiencing this issue. Your dentist can provide personalized treatment to address the root cause of your discomfort and restore your oral health.
