A toothache that throbs or aches upon biting down can be very painful and distressing. What may have started as a slight pain eventually becomes an acute ache, which then gradually hinders one’s ability to enjoy meals and even perform daily activities. In this case, it is important to address the real cause of the complaint for the right prescription to prevent it from progressing.
This article lists 7 reasons why your tooth hurts when you bite down and what can be done to stop that problem.
7 Reasons Why Your Tooth Hurts When You Bite Down
- Cavities and Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is one of the most common causes of pain in the tooth as people are known to eat sweets and other miscellaneous foods regularly. Acids that are produced by the bacteria found in one’s mouth have damaged the enamel, and thus the holes or forms of destruction occur in the tooth. If the cavities are not cured at the right time, cavities can sometimes reveal inner nerves from deeper layers of a tooth and make it sensitive to pressure every time it attempts to chew.
Signs to Look For:
- Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods.
- Visible holes or black spots on teeth.
- Continuous dental aches even though not eating.
Treatment:
The oral cavity formed by the rotting part may be removed completely by a dental practitioner and further filled with an appropriate filling. In extreme circumstances, a root canal may be necessary if the decay has reached the pulp of the tooth.
2 Cracked or Chipped Tooth
Another reason why your tooth hurts when biting down is often due to a crack or fracture in the tooth. It can be the result of an accident, biting into hard foods, or grinding at night. Nearly invisible and even tiny cracks can be very painful when pressure is applied.
Symptoms to Watch Out For:
- Dull ache on releasing the bite.
- Pain that comes and goes.
- Temperature sensitivity is higher than usual.
Treatment:
Depending upon the severity, treatment is done. Superficial cracks require bonding or filling, but fractured teeth may also require a crown. In most extreme cases, extraction is indicated.
- Gum Disease and Receding Gums
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums and the surrounding bone structure. As the disease progresses, the gums pull back and expose the roots of the teeth, and that is painful if pressure is applied to try and eat.
Symptoms Include:
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums.
- Bad breath that doesn’t get better.
- Loose teeth or gum recession.
Treatment:
A dentist may advise a deep cleaning procedure called scaling and root planing to remove plaque and bacteria from below the gum line. In more advanced cases, gum graft surgery may be required to cover exposed roots.
- Tooth Abscess or Infection
An abscess is an infection, typically with bacteria entering the pulp of a tooth. The condition causes soreness and pus formation, which leads to severe pain while biting. If not treated promptly, the abscess can spread to other parts of the body, becoming dangerous for health.
Signs to Watch Out For:
- Pain-severe, Throbbing.
- Swollen Gums or Face.
- Bad Taste or Bad Smell in the Mouth.
Treatment:
The pulp needs to be removed and the tooth is sealed by performing a root canal treatment. Sometimes, antibiotics are prescribed to control the infection before the procedure.
- Sinus Infection (Sinusitis)
Another thing why your tooth hurts when you bite down is a sinus infection can cause toothache-like pain in the upper molars. The sinuses are right next to the roots of these teeth, and with inflammation, they pressure the nerves in the teeth, which might be interpreted as a toothache.
Symptoms to Watch Out for:
- Pain across multiple upper teeth.
- Blockage of the nasal passages and sinus pressure.
- Headaches and facial tenderness.
Treatment:
If the tooth pain is caused by a sinus infection, then treating the infection with decongestants or antihistamines or antibiotics if it were bacterial would provide relief. Generally, when the inflammation in the sinus subsides, the tooth pain goes away.
- High Dental Filling or Crown
If a filling or crown placed recently is not adjusted well, it may sit too high and will exert uneven pressure on the tooth when trying to bite. This can be painful or sore in the tooth.
Symptoms to Look For:
- Pain when chewing.
- Uneven feeling when biting.
- Recent dental procedure.
Treatment:
A dentist can also change the height of the filling or crown to make the bite even. The process is usually quick and painless and offers instant relief.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding and Clenching)
Bruxism, or excessive grinding and teeth clenching, causes tooth sensitivity and pain when you bite down. The constant pressure weakens the enamel and can lead to micro-fractures, gum recession, and inflammation of the jaw muscles.
Look for these signs:
- Worn-down or flattened teeth.
- Pain in the jaw or headaches, especially in the morning.
- Clicking or popping sounds in the jaw joint.
Treatment:
Wearing a custom-made nightguard can help protect the teeth from grinding. Stress management techniques and jaw exercises may also help alleviate symptoms.
If one wonders why his or her tooth hurts when biting down, it may be a small cavity or something serious, such as an infection or even misaligned dental work. Knowing these seven possible causes may help one to take the proper steps toward relief. Ignoring the pain could worsen the conditions, and professional dental care is needed.
A visit to the dentist for an assessment will go a long way in defining the cause and providing a proper course of healing. Under proper care and guidance, eating eventually becomes pain-free, and oral well-being is maintained for all the years to come.
