Why Do My Molars Hurt When I Chew?
If you've ever experienced a sharp pain in your molars while enjoying your favorite meal, you know how alarming and uncomfortable it can be.
This common yet often misunderstood issue can have a multitude of causes, from dental decay and gum disease to sinus infections, cracked teeth, and more.
This article aims to shed light on why your molars might hurt when you chew, breaking down each possible cause and offering insight into prevention and treatment methods. Understanding these potential triggers not only aids in maintaining your overall oral health, but can also help you seek the most effective treatment in a timely manner.
Let's delve into the world of dental health to explore why you may be experiencing molar pain when chewing — and how to alleviate it.
Quick Answer: Why Do My Molars Hurt When Chewing?
Molar pain can have various causes, including:
Cracked teeth
Decay
Apical infection
Periodontal disease
Sinus infection or congestion
Note, also, that a bruise can occur due to biting into something hard, or from clenching teeth. In this case, the pain should resolve on its own.
Causes of Molar Pain
Cracked Tooth
Cracked tooth syndrome is a common cause of molar pain when chewing. The cracks in the teeth can be hard to see, but they may cause sensitivity or severe pain when biting down.
This pain can become more pronounced when eating hard foods that put pressure on the cracked tooth. It's important to get a dental checkup as soon as possible if you suspect a cracked tooth, because not all painful teeth are cracked.
High Filling or Crown
Another reason for molar pain when chewing could be due to a high filling, crown, or irregular bite. When a filling or crown is placed too high, it can interfere with the normal occlusion of the teeth, causing pain and discomfort when chewing.
In some cases, adjustments to the filling or crown can help alleviate the pain. If you recently had dental work done and the tooth is now hurting, this is the “best case scenario” explanation for the pain.
*Note that although your dentist adjusted the bite on your filling or crown at the time of the procedure, discomfort can be triggered by irregularities of less than 0.1 mm. Additionally, the way that the teeth come together may have been altered at the time of treatment, due to the anesthetic or a sore jaw.
Apical Abscess
An abscess could lead to molar pain when chewing. This is an infection at the root of the tooth, and it can cause severe pain when putting pressure on the tooth while chewing.
The good news is that these infections are often easy to pinpoint and straightforward to treat. The bad news is that treatment of an apical abscess will likely require root canal therapy or an extraction.
If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, so it's vital to see a dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is another common cause of molar pain. When bacteria form acids that erode the tooth enamel, it can create cavities.
When these cavities destroy a large amount of tooth structure, underlying areas of the tooth become exposed, often resulting in a sharp pain when chewing. Regular dental checkups and proper oral hygiene can help prevent tooth decay.
Sinus Infection or Congestion
Sometimes, the cause of molar pain isn't directly related to the teeth. Sinus infections or congestion can cause pain in the upper molars (and premolars) as they are located close to the sinus cavities. If you suspect a sinus issue may be causing your molar pain, you can consult with a medical professional.
Periodontal Disease
Lastly, periodontal disease and gum problems can also lead to molar pain when chewing. This is because periodontal disease destroys supporting bone, resulting in tooth movement with chewing.
Maintaining good oral hygiene and visiting a dentist regularly can help identify and address periodontal disease before it becomes a more serious issue. It is important to note that periodontal disease is a progressive condition that rarely (if ever) improves, so you should be vigilant in treating the condition.
Identifying the Problem
As a dentist, I routinely encounter patients experiencing molar pain when chewing.
The first step in helping to identify and resolve the issue is conducting a thorough dental examination. In this section, we’ll discuss the dental exam process and the crucial role of X-rays in diagnosing molar pain.
Dental Exam
During the dental exam, your dentist will carefully evaluate your teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues for any signs of decay, infection, or inflammation.
He or she will likely check your bite for any misalignment or uneven pressure that could be contributing to the molar pain.
Additionally, he or she may look for any signs of tooth fractures or excessive wear on the enamel, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and discomfort.
Some problems may not be visible to the naked eye, so further examination may be necessary to get to the root of molar pain. This is where X-rays become invaluable in the diagnostic process.
X-rays
X-rays are essential in providing a more in-depth look at the teeth and jaw structure, particularly in areas that cannot be directly observed. In most cases, your dentist uses these images to identify and diagnose the underlying cause of molar pain.
By examining the X-rays, it is often possible to identify conditions such as:
Tooth decay: Small cavities or larger areas of decay in the tooth's structure
Tooth fractures: Hairline cracks or breaks in the tooth causing pain during chewing
Abscesses: Infections in the tooth's root or surrounding bone and gum tissues
Gum disease: Advanced stages of gum disease that may affect tooth stability and cause pain
Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth that are not emerging properly, leading to pericoronitis or other complications
Through the dental exam and the use of X-rays, your dentist will likely be able to pinpoint the most likely source of molar pain and create a targeted treatment plan to address the identified issue. This process often leads to a more comfortable and pain-free chewing experience for patients.
Treatment Options
Dental Fillings
For moderate molar pain due to cavities caused by tooth decay, dental fillings are sometimes a suitable treatment. Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill it with a dental material, such as amalgam or composite resin, to restore the tooth's structure and functionality.
*Note that in many cases of severe decay or severe pain, a tooth will require more extensive treatment than a filling can provide — such as a crown, root canal therapy, or extraction.
Root Canal Therapy
If molar pain is caused by an infection reaching the pulp of the tooth, root canal therapy will almost certainly be necessary. During this procedure, the dentist will remove the infected pulp, clean out the canals, and seal them to prevent future infections. Following root canal therapy, the tooth may require a crown for added strength and protection.
Periodontal Treatment
If molar pain is related to gum disease, periodontal treatment can often be an effective option. Depending on the severity of gum disease, treatment may include scaling and root planing (a deep cleaning procedure) or more advanced methods, such as periodontal surgery or laser therapy. Maintaining proper oral hygiene and having regular dental check-ups will help keep gum disease under control and alleviate molar pain.
*Note that in advanced cases, periodontal therapy will be unable to save the tooth and alleviate pain. In these instances, an extraction and replacement is likely to be the recommended treatment.
Crown Placement
When a molar is severely damaged, has a large filling, or has undergone root canal therapy, a dental crown may be necessary. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that covers the damaged tooth to restore its strength, functionality, and appearance. Dental crown materials vary, but they can be made from porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.
For teeth with small cracks, crowns are a common treatment option. By encircling and covering the tooth, the damaged tooth will flex less with chewing, which often minimizes the biting discomfort.
Tooth Extraction
In some cases, the best treatment for my molar pain might be tooth extraction. This is usually considered as a last resort when other treatment options have failed or the tooth is extensively damaged or decayed. Once the tooth is extracted, replacement options, such as dental implants, bridges, or removable partial dentures, may be considered to address any functional or cosmetic concerns.
Preventive Measures
Oral Hygiene Practices
To prevent molars from hurting when chewing, practice good oral hygiene. This consists of brushing teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush for at least two minutes twice a day and flossing daily. This reduces the likelihood of tooth decay and gum disease which can contribute to molar pain.
Mindful Chewing Practices
One often overlooked aspect of oral health is being mindful of what we subject our teeth to. Habits such as chewing ice, biting fingernails, or even using teeth as tools to open packages can take a toll on your oral health. Our teeth, while incredibly strong, are not indestructible and are not designed to handle such activities.
These habits can lead to chips or cracks in the teeth, which can cause molar pain when chewing. By avoiding these habits, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your molars and prevent unnecessary pain.
Remember, maintaining good oral health is not just about brushing and flossing. It also involves treating your teeth with care and avoiding habits that could potentially harm them. Good oral health is integral to our overall wellbeing, so it's crucial to take all steps necessary to ensure it.
Regular Dental Checkups
Having regular dental checkups is another crucial preventive measure. These visits allow your dentist to identify any potential issues early on, such as cavities or gum disease.
When to See a Dentist
Sometimes it can be difficult to determine whether molar pain is something serious or just a temporary issue that will resolve on its own. There are a few key signs that indicate it's time to consult a dental professional.
For molar pain that lasts for more than a few days and doesn't seem to be improving, make a dental appointment. This lingering pain likely signifies an underlying issue.
If you notice any swelling, redness, or bleeding around the affected molar, it's prudent to have a dentist evaluate it. These symptoms could be a sign of gum disease or infection. In addition, severe pain, especially if accompanied by a fever, can indicate an abscess that requires immediate attention.
A molar that is consistently painful when exposed to temperature changes may be a sign of tooth decay or damage to the tooth's enamel.
Lastly, if you have difficulty chewing or biting down on food without experiencing pain, it's time to see a dentist. This can be a symptom of several dental issues, ranging from tooth decay to a more serious infection.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing molar pain when chewing can stem from a variety of sources, including tooth decay, abscesses, sinus infections, cracked teeth, periodontal disease, and more. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which might range from dental fillings and root canal therapy to crown placement or tooth extraction, are vital to avoid escalating dental problems and ensure long-lasting relief.
Regular dental checkups and maintaining good oral hygiene are essential preventative measures that can save you from considerable discomfort and serious dental issues.
Don't ignore persistent molar pain – consult a dental professional if the discomfort lasts for more than a few days, if there's swelling or bleeding, or if you experience severe pain, especially when accompanied by a fever. Remember, taking care of your oral health not only prevents molar pain when chewing but also contributes to your overall health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dull pain when biting down - possible reasons?
Dull pain when biting down can be caused by several factors. It could be due to a high filling, cracked tooth, cavities, gum disease, or an abscess in the tooth. When these issues remain untreated, they can lead to discomfort when biting or chewing. Regular dental check-ups can help identify and treat these problems early on.
Sharp pain in tooth when chewing gum - causes?
Sharp pain in your tooth when chewing gum is often indicative of a dental issue. Sensitivity to cold or heat, a cracked or fractured tooth, or tooth decay are potential causes. If you're experiencing consistent sharp pain when chewing gum, it is best to consult with a dental professional for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Toothache after filling - is this normal?
It is not uncommon to experience some tooth sensitivity or discomfort after getting a filling. Your tooth may temporarily be sensitive to temperature, pressure, or even sweet foods. However, if the toothache persists for an extended period or worsens, it's essential to contact your dentist, as this could be a sign of a complication or an issue with the filling itself.
Pressure in tooth without pain - what could it be?
Feeling pressure in a tooth without accompanying pain can have various causes. It could be due to a high bite, clenching or grinding your teeth, or even sinus issues that can cause pressure in the upper teeth. If the pressure persists or becomes painful, visit your dentist to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.
Cracked tooth pain when biting down - how to identify?
Cracked tooth pain when biting down can be challenging to identify since the symptoms can be inconsistent. The pain might be sharp or dull, and it may come and go intermittently. If you suspect you have a cracked tooth, a dental professional can perform a thorough examination and use specialized imaging to confirm the diagnosis.
* Though the author of this post is a licensed dentist in the state of Kansas, this information is provided for informational and educational purposes only. Please use your best judgment and contact emergency medical services in the event of an emergency.