Why does my Tooth Hurt when I Bite Down?

Cracked or Fractured Tooth

One of the leading causes of pain when biting down is a cracked or fractured tooth. Even a minor crack can create significant discomfort, particularly when pressure is applied. Cracks may be caused by various factors, such as trauma from an accident, teeth grinding (bruxism), or biting down on something hard like a piece of ice or an unpopped popcorn kernel. If left untreated, a cracked tooth can worsen, eventually requiring more invasive dental treatments.

Tooth Decay or Cavity

Tooth decay occurs when plaque builds up on the tooth’s surface, producing acids that erode the enamel and create cavities. If decay progresses to the inner layers of the tooth, it can cause pain, especially when pressure is applied during chewing. Cavities weaken the tooth structure and expose the nerves, making the tooth highly sensitive. Early detection and treatment of cavities can prevent the decay from worsening and save the tooth from more extensive procedures like root canals.

Gum Disease or Infection

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can cause gums to recede and expose the roots of your teeth. When this happens, the teeth become more sensitive to pressure and temperature. Additionally, gum infections or abscesses can create pockets of bacteria and pus around the tooth, leading to intense pain when chewing. If left unchecked, gum disease can lead to bone and tooth loss, making timely dental care essential.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a severe infection that forms at the root of a tooth or in the surrounding gums. Abscesses create painful, pus-filled pockets and often cause sharp pain when biting down. Other symptoms of a dental abscess include swelling, fever, and a foul taste in the mouth. Dental abscesses require immediate treatment to prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of the body.



Tooth Sensitivity or Enamel Wear

Over time, the enamel that protects your teeth can wear away due to factors such as acidic foods, aggressive brushing, or teeth grinding. When enamel erodes, the underlying dentin becomes exposed, making your teeth sensitive to pressure, temperature, and certain foods. This sensitivity can feel like a painful twinge when you bite down. Fortunately, your dentist can recommend treatments to manage sensitivity and protect your teeth from further damage.

When to See a Dentist

It can be tempting to ignore tooth pain and hope it goes away on its own. However, persistent pain when biting down is a signal that you should see a dentist. Here are some signs that warrant a dental visit:

• Pain that persists, worsens, or doesn’t improve over time
• Swelling or redness in the gums around the affected tooth
• A fever or foul taste in your mouth, which may indicate an infection
• Difficulty eating or chewing due to discomfort

Addressing tooth pain early can help prevent complications and keep your smile healthy. Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable; getting professional care can save you from more extensive and costly treatments.

Potential Complications if Left Untreated

Ignoring dental pain can have serious consequences. Here’s what can happen if you leave it unaddressed:

Worsening Decay

Minor cavities can grow larger over time, destroying more of the tooth structure. What might have been a simple filling could turn into a more complex procedure like a crown or root canal.

Infection Spread

A dental abscess doesn’t just stay in one place. If untreated, the infection can spread to the jawbone, neck, or even other parts of the body, leading to life-threatening complications. The sooner you seek treatment, the better.

Tooth Loss

Severe decay or infection can lead to the complete loss of the tooth. In some cases, a tooth may become too damaged to save, requiring extraction. Tooth loss can affect your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.

Seeking timely dental care can help avoid these complications, preserving both your oral health and overall well-being.

Don’t Ignore Dental Pain: Contact Mint Dental Today!