There are several reasons why you might experience tooth pain when biting down. Various conditions can lead to this pain, such as cavities, tooth damage, sinus infections, and gum disease. These problems can cause sharp pain while chewing or applying pressure to the tooth and may result in tooth loss and other dental complications. This blog explores the factors that cause pain when biting, explains when to seek help, and the available treatment options.
What Causes Tooth Pain When Biting Down Or Touching It?
Some common reasons for tooth pain that occurs when you bite down may include:
Cavities
Cavities, holes in the teeth caused by decay, are among the most common causes of pain when biting down. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about 90% of adults over 20 have experienced at least one cavity.
They occur when the hard outer layer of teeth, known as enamel, deteriorates as bacteria in plaque consume sugars in your mouth. Cavities can affect any part of the tooth, and the roots can also be affected when gum recession occurs from gum disease. Cavities can cause pain when you bite down because the pressure from chewing exposes the sensitive inner parts of the tooth, such as the dentin and possibly the pulp.
Cracked Tooth
Cracks in your tooth can be caused by physical injuries or the normal wear and tear from everyday use. When a tooth is cracked, you may experience sudden pain while eating or sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures from foods or drinks. This pain can be intermittent, which might make it challenging for your dentist to find the affected tooth.
Knowing the anatomy of a tooth can help you see why it causes pain.
The tooth consists of a white outer layer called enamel and a hard layer called dentin, beneath which is the soft pulp. The pulp contains the nerves and blood vessels essential for tooth health. If the hard exterior of a tooth is cracked, chewing can put pressure on the tooth, irritating the pulp inside. Eventually, this can lead to damage that cannot heal.
The tooth may cause pain while you chew and be sensitive to extreme temperatures. Severe cracks can result in an infection of the pulp, which can extend to the surrounding bone and gums. If you suspect a cracked tooth is causing pain, you should see your dentist immediately.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis, or periodontal disease, is a serious gum infection caused by untreated gingivitis. It is common, affecting almost 42% of American adults over 30. The infection causes the gums to recede from the teeth, leading to loss of bone mass and weakening. This condition can result in toothaches due to loosening teeth and decay. It is a progressive condition and a common cause of tooth loss.
Malocclusion
In a proper bite, the upper teeth should overlap the lower teeth, and the molars should fit together. When they are misaligned, malocclusion occurs, leading to wear, damage, and instability of the teeth. This misalignment can result in loosened teeth, cracks, decay, and a higher risk of gingivitis and periodontitis, all of which can cause tooth pain when you bite down.
Loose Fillings or Crowns
Dental fillings used to treat cavities and crowns that cover damaged teeth can sometimes cause tooth pain. If these are loose, ill-fitting, or broken, they can affect the underlying tooth structure, leading to pain when chewing. This issue may arise from:
- Normal wear and tear
- Poorly fitted crown
- Decay under the crown
- Dental infections
- Grinding of the teeth
Abscessed Tooth
Tooth decay, gum disease, and damage can inflame and kill the pulp inside a tooth. This condition can result in an abscess, a pocket of thick fluid or pus that forms where the teeth connect to the bone. If not treated, this painful condition can spread the infection to the bone, other teeth, and nearby tissues.
Pulp Necrosis
Tooth decay often leads to pulpitis, an infection of the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels around the tooth root. This infection can cause the pulp to die, a condition known as necrosis. Pulp necrosis can result in pain when biting and may lead to tooth abscesses and other serious dental problems.
Treating the Causes of Your Tooth Pain
The treatment for tooth pain is determined by its underlying cause. Dentists and dental professionals use different methods to treat various dental concerns.
Cavity
The treatment for a cavity varies based on the extent of damage and decay. Some typical treatment options include:
- Dental fillings—Fillings are the standard method for treating early-stage cavities. The dentist removes the decayed enamel and fills the space with dental cement or composite material.
- Root canal—A root canal is necessary if the cavity has led to an infection in the pulp. The dentist removes the infected tissue, cleans the tooth thoroughly, places a temporary filling, and allows time for healing before applying a permanent restoration.
- Extraction—In severe cases where the pulp cannot be saved, the dentist may suggest extracting the tooth. After an extraction, you might need a dental implant or bridge to replace the missing tooth.
Cracked Teeth
There are dental treatments that can repair cracked or chipped teeth, relieving your toothaches. These procedures may include:
- Dental bonding—The dentist applies a special resin to fill the crack or chip, restoring the tooth’s shape and function.
- Veneers—In certain situations, a thin shell made of porcelain or plastic (veneer) can be placed over the damaged tooth to fix it.
- Dental crowns—A crown is a custom-made cap that fits over the remaining structure of damaged or cracked teeth. It is designed to match the color and shape of surrounding teeth.
Loose Filling or Crown
Loose fillings or crowns are easy to fix. If a filling comes loose or falls out, a dentist can often re-cement it or replace it. However, additional treatment, like a root canal, could be necessary if decay is under the filling. Dental crowns can be reattached using a straightforward procedure, provided the tooth structure underneath is not decayed or damaged.
Abscessed Tooth
The main focus in treating an abscessed tooth is to address the infection causing it. Treatment methods vary based on the underlying issue and may include:
- Taking antibiotics to eliminate the bacterial infection
- Scaling and root planing to clean the areas between gums and teeth
- Draining the abscess to relieve pressure and encourage healing
- Performing a root canal if the infection stems from tooth decay or damage
Pulp Necrosis
Endodontists, who specialize in pulp treatment, can treat pulp necrosis in various ways, including:
- Fillings—Dental fillings may be necessary to treat cavities that cause infection. If a filling is loose, a dentist can replace it.
- Root canal—During a root canal, the dentist removes infected pulp, disinfects the tooth, and cleans it on the first visit. On the second visit, they fill and fix the tooth.
- Pulpectomy—This procedure involves removing severely affected pulp through a small opening in the tooth. It is often done alongside a root canal.
- Dental implants—In severe cases, the tooth may need to be extracted and replaced with a prosthetic, such as a dental implant or bridge.
When to Visit a Dentist for a Toothache
You should not delay seeing your dentist if you are experiencing tooth pain. Issues like cavities and cracks can worsen if you leave them untreated. You should contact your dentist or doctor for a toothache if:
- Pain persists despite taking over-the-counter medications.
- You experience intense pain after a tooth extraction, especially on the second or third day. This pain may occur if the blood clot dislodges, exposing the bone until a new clot forms. This condition is called alveolar osteitis or “dry socket syndrome.” If this happens, you should visit a dentist within 24 hours.
- You notice swelling in your gums or face, or if there is discharge around a tooth;
- If you have a fever, it can indicate an infection related to dental issues. Simple tooth decay typically does not cause fever. These symptoms may suggest an infection in the tooth, gums, or jawbone. Fever and swelling could indicate an abscess, which may need antibiotics and surgical drainage. A “root canal” procedure may be performed if drainage is required inside the tooth.
- If your tooth has broken or been knocked out, you should contact your dentist soon, mainly if no other serious injuries exist. Losing a tooth or swallowing one is considered a dental emergency.
Treating tooth loss from an injury differs between children who lose their baby teeth and older children or adults who lose their permanent teeth. If a child’s tooth is completely knocked out, rinse it gently and place it back in the socket immediately, then seek dental help. If you cannot reinsert it, keep the tooth in a small amount of milk or water and seek dental care.
When opening your mouth wide, pain at the angle of your jaw could indicate an injury or inflammation of the TMJ (temporomandibular joint). TMJ can happen from an injury, eating something too large, or opening your mouth too wide. Your dentist can advise you on how to address this issue.
Wisdom teeth, or third molars, can cause discomfort as they erupt, leading to inflammation of the gums around the tooth. The lower third molar is usually the one affected. Pain may radiate to the jaw and ear, and swelling can prevent the jaw from closing correctly. In severe cases, you might also feel pain in your throat and under your tongue, making swallowing difficult. If the pain persists, you should contact your dentist.
If you have recently injured your head or face and are experiencing headaches, nausea, or other concerning symptoms, you should seek dental care as soon as possible.
You can also seek medical attention if you have jaw pain that is accompanied by chest pain. Individuals with heart disease, particularly those with diabetes, stents, or a history of heart surgery, may experience jaw pain as a sign of a heart attack or angina. Other symptoms to watch out for include:
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Shortness of breath
Home Remedies for Toothache
If you are experiencing mild pain while chewing, you can try home remedies to ease the pain.
For toothaches:
- You can use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Follow the instructions on the label while you schedule a visit to the dentist.
- Steer clear of extremely hot or cold foods, which might intensify the pain.
- Biting on a cotton ball soaked in clove oil can provide some relief.
- Certain toothpaste types can help reduce tooth sensitivity, and proper brushing and flossing can reverse early gum disease.
For jaw pain:
- Aspirin may help adults with jaw joint issues.
- For children and teenagers, use acetaminophen instead of aspirin.
Preventing Toothaches
Most people can avoid toothaches and severe dental problems by maintaining oral hygiene. Keep your dentist’s contact information accessible for emergencies. You can use the following tips to prevent toothaches:
- Maintain a balanced diet. Bacteria thrive on refined sugars and starches, which can harm tooth enamel. Be cautious about what you eat, particularly sticky foods. Always remember to brush your teeth after meals.
- Set up a regular cleaning routine to remove food particles. Brush your teeth and gums after eating to support gum health. Use a soft toothbrush with fluoride toothpaste, as the American Dental Association advises.
- Floss daily to clean between teeth—While water flossers can help dislodge food, traditional flossing is more effective.
- Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash daily to kill bacteria that cause plaque and prevent gum disease.
- Use fluoride to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is a natural mineral found in many water sources and vegetables. Check if your tap water has fluoride. If it does not, your dentist can provide fluoride tablets or supplements for children under 10.
- Schedule a dental cleaning with a dentist or hygienist at least twice a year.— Professional cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. You may also need dental X-rays every 3 to 5 years to spot any issues.
- Make sure to keep your bridge or dentures clean. Your dentist can provide helpful tips.
- Wear a dental guard or headgear to protect your teeth from injury when playing sports.
- Avoid smoking, as it can worsen certain dental conditions.
Even if you have lost some adult teeth, these preventive measures can help you avoid new dental issues.
Find a Skilled Dentist Near Me
Experiencing pain when you bite down can be caused by different reasons, such as cavities, infections, and fractured or cracked teeth. Fortunately, maintaining good oral hygiene—like brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, using an antiseptic mouthwash, and having regular dental check-ups—can help prevent dental issues. Do not wait for tooth pain to go away by itself. You should see your dentist before the situation worsens. Watch for other signs of gum disease or tooth decay, such as swollen or bleeding gums.
If you are experiencing tooth pain, contact Lasting Impressions Dental Spa in Encino, California, today. We can assess your situation and suggest treatment to help you regain your smile. Call us today at 818-751-5100 to schedule a consultation.
