Westcoast International Dental Clinic Vietnam

Toothache: 6 Reasons for Dental Pain When You Bite Down

Toothache, Understanding and Managing the Underlying Causes of Biting-induced Dental Pain.

Toothache is a very common dental complaint. Many people find that dental pain can intensify when you bite down. It’s important to understand the causes of this specific type of dental pain to properly treat and prevent it. This article explores six common reasons why toothaches might occur when you bite, highlighting the importance of timely dental consultation.

1. Cavities

Tooth decay leads to cavities, which are essentially holes in your teeth. These cavities can become particularly painful when you bite down on something hard. The pressure exerted from the bite can aggravate the cavity, leading to a sharp, often unbearable toothache. Cavities are a primary cause of dental pain and require prompt attention from a dentist. This will prevent further deterioration of the tooth structure.

2. Toothache because of Cracked or Fractured Teeth

A crack or fracture in a tooth can be a significant source of dental pain, especially when biting down. The act of biting applies pressure on the tooth, potentially worsening the damage and irritating the dentin beneath the enamel. This layer, being closer to the nerve, is highly sensitive, and its exposure can cause intense pain.

3. Exposed Dentin

Enamel or cementum erosion exposes the underlying dentin, a sensitive layer of the tooth. When exposed, dentin is highly susceptible to pain from hot, cold, or sweet stimuli. Toothache arising from exposed dentin can be sharp and sudden, particularly when eating or drinking extremely hot or sweet items.

4. Toothache because of Loose or Broken Fillings

Dental fillings, designed to protect damaged areas of a tooth, can sometimes become loose or break. This leaves the underlying tooth exposed and sensitive, leading to a toothache when you bite down. The discomfort is especially pronounced if the affected tooth is one that you frequently rely on for chewing.

5. Gum Disease

Infections of the gums, or gum disease, not only affect the soft tissues but also the supporting structures of teeth. Advanced gum disease can loosen teeth, making them sensitive and painful to bite down on. This type of toothache is a serious indication of dental health issues that extend beyond the teeth themselves.

6. Abscessed tooth – root canal related

Teeth that have caries or are broken may allow bacteria into the pulp chamber inside the tooth. This can lead to a build up of pressure inside the tooth causing the tooth to abscess When you bite down, an abscess tooth can be painful due to the pressure that is placed on the end of the root of the tooth.

Old root canals that become reinfected also can have bacterial infection at the end of the roots reappear. It is known by dentists that any old root canaled tooth can become reinfected and a classic sign for this reinfection is pain occurring when chewing on the tooth. Often, a retreatment of the root canal can fix the issue but if the pain with chewing persists, then the only treatment is to extract the tooth.

Experiencing dental pain when biting down is a signal that you should not ignore. It’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. A dental professional can diagnose the root cause of your toothache and recommend an appropriate course of treatment. Addressing the problem early can prevent more serious complications and ensure the health and longevity of your teeth.

In conclusion, a toothache when biting down can stem from various dental issues. These range from cavities and cracked teeth to gum disease and TMJ disorders. Each cause requires a specific approach for treatment, making professional dental advice indispensable. Regular dental check-ups and maintaining good oral hygiene can go a long way in preventing these conditions. They will ensure that your teeth remain painless when chewing. Contact Westcoast International Dental Clinic today and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free bite.