Why Do My Teeth Hurt When I Chew?

If you experience discomfort or pain when chewing, it may indicate that something isn’t quite right. While the cause can range from something minor to a more serious dental condition, it’s important not to ignore the signs. Identifying the underlying issue early on can prevent long-term damage and alleviate ongoing discomfort.

Common Causes of Chewing Pain

Tooth Decay or Cavities

One of the most common culprits is a cavity. When decay reaches the inner layers of a tooth, it can make chewing painful, especially when pressure is applied.

Cracked Tooth Syndrome

Sometimes a tooth may develop small cracks that aren’t visible to the naked eye. These cracks can cause sharp pain when biting down, particularly if the crack opens slightly with pressure and then closes when you release your bite.

Gum Recession or Gum Disease

When gums recede due to periodontal disease or aggressive brushing, it exposes the more sensitive root surface of the tooth. This can lead to pain during chewing, especially when eating hard or crunchy foods.

Dental Abscess or Infection

An untreated cavity or gum infection can result in a dental abscess—an accumulation of pus due to bacterial infection. This can lead to irritating, persistant pain that worsens with pressure or chewing.

Issues with Dental Restorations

A loose filling or crown can shift under pressure, irritating the underlying tooth structure and causing discomfort. Malocclusion (when your bite doesn’t align properly) can also lead to uneven chewing forces that result in jaw pain and tooth soreness.

What You Can Do

If you’re experiencing pain while chewing, schedule a dental exam as soon as possible. Your dentist will assess your teeth, gums, and bite alignment to identify the source of the discomfort.

Treatments may include:

• Fillings or crowns for damaged teeth
• Root canal therapy for infected pulp
• Nightguards to protect against clenching or grinding
• Deep cleanings for gum disease
• Bite adjustments to correct alignment issues

The longer you wait, the more severe the problem may become. Early intervention leads to better outcomes—and a pain-free bite.