Why Does My Tooth Hurt When I Chew? Top Causes & Solutions

Nothing ruins a good meal faster than a sudden jolt of pain when you chew. No matter if your pain is sharp, dull, or somewhere in between, one thing's for sure—it’s your body’s way of telling you something's not right. 

From gum disease to sinus infections, there are many reasons why you may be experiencing pain. At Dow’s Lake Dental, we believe in keeping you informed so you can take control of your oral health. 

If chewing has gone from delightful to distressing, we’re here to walk you through the common causes of tooth pain and, most importantly, how to address it.

Reasons Your Tooth May Hurt When Chewing

You May Have a Cavity

A cavity (tooth decay) is among the most common reasons for tooth pain during chewing. 

When sugary or starchy foods interact with dental plaque, acids form and erode the tooth’s enamel. Over time, this damage creates tiny holes that can become sensitive when pressure is applied—like when biting into food.

Cavities can cause:

• Persistent toothaches 
• Sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods 
• Visible holes or dark spots on the tooth 

Fortunately, cavities are treatable, especially when caught early. Your dentist will fill the cavity to restore your tooth’s function and prevent further damage. 

Cavities are also preventable. Your best defense is a strict oral hygiene routine and regular dental visits.

You May Grind or Clench Your Teeth

Do you wake up with jaw pain or tension headaches? You could be grinding or clenching your teeth while you sleep. 

Bruxism puts constant pressure on your teeth, gradually wearing down the enamel and causing microcracks. As a result, your teeth can become more sensitive, especially when chewing, due to the damage that has occurred over time.

Bruxism can lead to:

• Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
• Soreness in the jaw or face
• Clicking or popping sounds when opening your mouth

A custom-made mouthguard, also known as a nightguard, can protect your teeth while you sleep. Your dentist may also recommend relaxation techniques or physical therapy for severe jaw pain caused by clenching.

You May Have Gum Disease

Sometimes, the pain you feel when chewing comes from your gums, not your teeth. 

Gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) or periodontitis (advanced gum disease) can cause gum irritation and recession, which exposes the sensitive roots of your teeth.

Signs of gum disease can include:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Receding gum line
• Loose teeth

Mild gum disease can be reversed with diligent brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings. However, advanced gum disease often requires treatment, including scaling and root planing to remove plaque below the gumline.

Preventive care is key—don’t skip those floss sessions!

You May Have a Cracked Tooth

Sometimes tooth pain during chewing isn’t obvious until you bite down on something hard, like popcorn kernels or ice cubes—and suddenly, ouch! 

A cracked tooth can cause sharp pain, as the pressure from chewing can shift the crack and cause discomfort.

Signs of a cracked tooth include:

• Sharp pain when biting
• Sensitivity to temperature changes
• Visible crack (though it may not always be noticeable to the naked eye)

A cracked tooth may be considered a dental emergency, depending on the severity. The sooner you see your dentist, the better. A small crack can often be repaired with bonding or a filling, but more extensive damage may require a dental crown (or, in severe cases, an extraction).

Prevention tip: Avoid chewing on hard objects like ice or using your teeth to open things, even if it's tempting!

You May Have a Tooth Infection or Abscess

An untreated cavity, crack, or injury can lead to an infection deep inside the tooth, known as a tooth abscess. Abscesses are a serious condition that can cause severe pain when chewing or pressing down on the affected tooth.

Signs of a cracked tooth include:

• Intense, throbbing pain
• Swelling around the face or jaw
• Bad taste in your mouth due to pus drainage

Treating an abscess usually involves draining it, cleaning the area, and performing root canal therapy to save the tooth (if possible). Antibiotics may also be prescribed to kill the infection. 

If you suspect an abscess, don’t wait—this is a dental emergency.

A tip from your Dow’s Lake Dental team: Always prioritize your dental cleanings to catch and address issues before they escalate.

You May Have Sinus Issues (Believe It or Not!)

Did you know that sinus problems can mimic tooth pain? 

Your upper molars sit close to the sinus cavities. When your sinuses become inflamed by a cold, allergies, or sinus infection, the pressure can transfer to nearby teeth and create discomfort when chewing.

Signs to look for:

• Pain around the upper back teeth
• Stuffy nose or sinus pressure
• Symptoms that improve after sinus treatment

If your tooth pain subsides when your sinus infection clears up, you likely don’t require dental work. However, if the pain persists, a quick dental exam can rule out other causes.

You May Have Had Recent Dental Work

Have you had a filling, crown, or other dental procedure recently? It’s normal to experience temporary sensitivity while chewing as your teeth adjust. However, if the discomfort persists after a couple of weeks, it may indicate a problem with your bite alignment or other issue, such as a high filling.

Signs to look for:

• Discomfort when biting down
• Pain around the treated tooth (but no signs of infection)

Contact your dentist to evaluate the area. A simple adjustment is often all it takes to resolve the issue.

Count on Dow’s Lake Dental for Compassionate Care

At Dow’s Lake Dental, we’re here to help ensure that chewing your favourite foods doesn’t feel like an obstacle course. Whether you’re dealing with cavities, sensitivity, or an unexpected crack, our experienced and friendly team is here to help.

Pain is your body’s way of getting your attention—don’t ignore it. Book an appointment online or give us a call today.