Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I Bite Down?

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Sun, 27 Oct 2024 13:41:01 +0000
Dental Health

Some types of tooth pain and sensitivity are not noticeable except under specific circumstances; for example, when we take a bite out of something or try to chew. If you are experiencing tooth pain while eating, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible and ask them, “Why do my teeth hurt when I bite down?” You may be dealing with a severe oral health condition that needs treatment right away.

Common Causes of Tooth Pain

Why do my teeth hurt when I bite down? You should ask your dentist for a professional diagnosis of the underlying cause.

In the meantime, check out the possible explanations below.

Tooth Decay

Once bacteria eat through the tooth enamel and reach the sensitive nerves in the tooth’s center, the pain can be excruciating. You might experience a terrible flare-up whenever you bite down on that side of your mouth. Scheduling regular dental check-ups reduces your risk of developing cavities and tooth decay.

Gum Disease

Periodontal disease occurs when the gum tissue around your teeth becomes infected and inflamed. Gum disease can cause extreme tooth sensitivity, especially when pressure is put on the teeth by biting down. Other symptoms of gum disease include gum recession, bad breath, and red or bleeding gums.

Broken or Cracked Tooth

A cracked or broken tooth can leave the nerves exposed. Each time those nerves come into contact with something; for example, with your top or bottom teeth – you will experience a sharp and possibly excruciating pain.

Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a pocket filled with pus that forms around a tooth’s roots. Infections in the gums, jawbone, or teeth cause abscesses. Putting pressure on the abscess by biting down can be extremely painful.

Teeth Grinding

“Why do my teeth hurt when I bite down?” If you’re a habitual tooth grinder, the answer might be, “Because you bite down too often”. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, tooth grinding (bruxism) can damage your teeth and jaw, possibly making it painful to bite down or chew.

What to Do If Your Tooth Hurts When You Bite Down

Your first move any time your teeth hurt should be to make an appointment with your dental office. Your dentist can diagnose the underlying issue and recommend a treatment plan.

Before your appointment, avoid eating hot, cold, or acidic foods, as these can worsen the pain caused by a cavity or abscess. Home remedies like salt water gargles and hot compresses may provide temporary relief. If you have bruxism, wearing a mouthguard at night may protect your teeth from hairline fractures caused by repeated trauma.

Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I Bite Down? Final Thoughts

Tooth pain is more than just hard to live with; it is a sign that there could be something seriously wrong going on inside your mouth. If you ask, “Why do my teeth hurt when I bite down?” It is time to contact your dentist and request an appointment right away.