My Tooth Hurts When I Press on It: Causes, Solutions and Useful Tips
A toothache can be annoying, but when it hurts to press or chew, the discomfort is even greater. If you’re here, you’ve probably asked yourself things like: “Why does it only hurt when I chew?” or “Should I worry if the discomfort is getting worse?”. The reality is that pain when pressing can be down to several reasons, from something simple like tooth sensitivity to more serious problems such as an infection or a fracture. Let’s find out what might be going on and, most importantly, how to fix it as soon as possible.
The main causes of tooth pain when pressing
That sharp pain or discomfort when chewing doesn’t appear by chance. Something is affecting the structure of the tooth or the tissues around it.
Tooth decay: the silent enemy
Cavities are one of the main causes of pain when chewing. When a cavity advances, it can affect the dentine and even reach the nerve. At this point, every bite can become a painful reminder that something isn’t right.
If the pain is one-off and only appears when you eat something sweet or bite down hard, you very likely have a developing cavity. The good news is that, if it’s caught in time, a simple filling can solve the problem.
Tooth sensitivity: is it a warning sign?
If you feel a sharp pain when pressing on a tooth but there are no visible signs of a cavity, it could be tooth sensitivity. This happens when the enamel is worn or the gums have receded, leaving the most sensitive part of the tooth exposed.
This type of pain usually appears with cold, hot or acidic foods. If you notice the discomfort is more frequent with certain foods, you may need a toothpaste specifically for sensitivity.
Fractures or cracks in the tooth: how to spot them
Sometimes, the pain when pressing is a sign that the tooth is fractured or has a microscopic crack. It can be the result of a knock, clenching the teeth at night (bruxism) or simply wear over time.
Fractures can be hard to detect with the naked eye, but if the pain only appears at certain times, such as when chewing something hard, it’s advisable to see the dentist as soon as possible to assess the damage.
What to do when the toothache is unbearable
When the pain goes from being a simple nuisance to something that stops you eating or sleeping, you need to act fast.
Home remedies to relieve the pain temporarily
If you need immediate relief while you wait for your dental appointment, here are some tricks that can help:
- A rinse with warm salt water: it helps disinfect and reduce inflammation.
- Applying cold to the outside: an ice pack on the cheek for 15 minutes can reduce inflammation.
- Clove or clove oil: it has natural pain-relieving properties. You can apply it to the affected area with a cotton bud.
- Taking over-the-counter painkillers: ibuprofen or paracetamol can relieve the pain temporarily.
These remedies will only give you a momentary break, but they won’t solve the problem at its root.
When to see the dentist: signs of urgency
If the pain lasts more than two days, is constant or comes with other symptoms such as swelling, fever or a bad taste in the mouth, don’t let any more time go by. These can be signs of a more serious infection that needs professional treatment.
Professional treatment options for severe pain
The treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Some options include:
- Fillings or inlays to repair cavities or cracks.
- Root-canal treatment or endodontics if the cavity has reached the nerve.
- Dental splints in the case of bruxism to prevent wear and fractures.
- Tooth extraction only if there’s no other option and the damage is irreversible.
Preventing tooth pain: healthy habits for a healthy mouth
Although the pain is already here, it’s worth remembering that prevention is always better than cure.
The importance of daily dental hygiene
Brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste is key to avoiding cavities and tooth problems. Don’t forget to use dental floss to remove food debris that can get trapped between the teeth.
Foods that strengthen your teeth and gums
- Dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt help remineralise the enamel.
- Crunchy fruits and vegetables (carrots, apples) clean the teeth naturally.
- Nuts and fish provide phosphorus and calcium to keep the teeth strong.
Regular check-ups: the key to catching problems in time
Many people only go to the dentist when they’re already in pain, but a check-up every six months can detect cavities, cracks or infections before they cause discomfort.
Frequently asked questions about tooth pain when pressing
Is it normal for it to hurt only when chewing or touching the tooth?
Yes, and it usually indicates a localised problem, such as a cavity, a crack or inflammation at the root. If the pain goes away after a few days, it may just be sensitivity, but if it persists, it’s best to consult a professional.
Which medications can relieve the pain temporarily?
Painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol are effective at reducing the discomfort. You can also try over-the-counter anaesthetic gels to apply directly to the affected tooth.
What happens if I ignore the toothache for a long time?
The problem won’t go away on its own. If the cause is a cavity, it will keep advancing until it reaches the nerve, causing intense pain and possible infection. If there’s a fracture, it could spread and make the tooth beyond repair. In both cases, it’s best to treat it as soon as possible.
Conclusion: don’t ignore tooth pain when pressing
If your tooth hurts when you press or chew, it’s a sign that something isn’t right. Don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable, as it can be an easy problem to solve if it’s caught in time. Consult your dentist, follow good oral hygiene and don’t ignore the warning signs. Your smile and your health will thank you for it!
