Feeling pain when you bite down or apply pressure to a tooth can be alarming. It can make eating uncomfortable and may signal an underlying dental issue. Understanding the possible causes and seeking treatment early can help prevent more serious problems.
Why Does My Tooth Hurt When I Put Pressure on It?
Several conditions can cause tooth pain when pressure is applied. Some of the most common reasons include:
1. Tooth Decay Cavities are one of the most common causes of tooth pain. When decay reaches the dentin layer beneath the enamel, the tooth becomes sensitive. If the cavity extends deeper into the tooth, pressure from biting can trigger pain.
2. Cracked Tooth A crack in a tooth can cause sensitivity and pain, especially when chewing. The pressure from biting can cause the crack to open slightly, irritating the nerves inside the tooth. Cracks can result from trauma, grinding, or biting down on something hard.
3. Loose or Damaged Filling If you have a filling that has become loose or damaged, bacteria can enter the space between the filling and your tooth. This can lead to decay and increased sensitivity to pressure.
4. Gum Recession and Dentin Hypersensitivity Gum recession can expose the root of the tooth, which is not protected by enamel. The exposed dentin contains tiny tubules that connect to the nerves, leading to pain when pressure is applied.
5. Dental Infection (Abscess) A bacterial infection in the tooth or gums can cause intense pain, especially when biting. An abscess forms when bacteria infect the pulp inside the tooth, leading to swelling and pus buildup. This type of pain is often severe and may be accompanied by swelling or a bad taste in the mouth.
6. Recent Dental Work After procedures such as fillings, crowns, or root canals, it is normal to experience some sensitivity. However, if the pain persists beyond a few weeks, it could indicate a bite misalignment, a poorly fitted crown, or lingering nerve irritation.
7. Sinus Pressure and Tooth Pain Sometimes, tooth pain isn’t caused by a dental issue at all. Sinus infections can put pressure on the upper molars, making them feel sensitive. If your tooth pain is accompanied by nasal congestion or facial pressure, a sinus infection might be the culprit.
When Should You See a Dentist? If your tooth pain lasts more than a day or two, gets worse over time, or is accompanied by swelling, fever, or difficulty eating, it’s time to see a dentist. Ignoring the pain can allow the problem to worsen, potentially leading to more extensive and costly treatments.
Treatment Options for Tooth Pain with Pressure
The right treatment depends on the cause of your pain:
- Cavities – A dentist can remove the decay and restore the tooth with a filling.
- Cracked Teeth – Small cracks may be repaired with bonding, while larger cracks may require a crown or root canal.
- Loose or Damaged Fillings – The filling may need to be replaced to prevent further decay and sensitivity.
- Gum Recession – Treatments include fluoride applications, desensitizing agents, or gum grafting in severe cases.
- Abscess or Infection – A root canal may be necessary to remove the infection and save the tooth. In severe cases, extraction might be required.
- Bite Adjustment – If recent dental work is causing pain, your dentist can adjust the bite to relieve pressure.
- Sinus Infection – If sinus issues are causing your tooth pain, treating the infection with decongestants or antibiotics may help relieve the discomfort.
If your tooth hurts when you bite down, don’t ignore it. The sooner you see a dentist, the sooner you can find relief and prevent the problem from getting worse. Suncreek Dental Group in Littleton, CO, is here to help. Call us at (303) 933-2522 to schedule an appointment and get back to pain-free eating.
Category: General