Why Does My Tooth Hurt When I Bite Down?

Pain when biting down is one of the most common reasons patients call our office, and it usually points to a specific, identifiable cause.

Common Causes of Pain When Biting

• A cracked tooth, which can cause sharp pain specifically when pressure is applied

• A cavity that has reached the inner layers of the tooth

• A loose or damaged filling

• A high or uneven bite putting extra pressure on one tooth

• An abscess or infection at the root of the tooth

• Sinus pressure, which can sometimes mimic tooth pain in the upper back teeth

Why You Shouldn't Wait

Pain when biting is your body's way of flagging a structural or infection-related issue, and it rarely resolves on its own. Waiting often turns a simple fix into a more involved one, so it's worth having it evaluated promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal for pain to come and go?

Yes, especially with cracked teeth, where pain often shows up only when you bite in a certain spot.

Can I just avoid chewing on that side until it goes away?

You can in the short term, but the underlying cause needs to be diagnosed and treated rather than just avoided.

If you have questions or want to talk through your options, Dr. Kaylee Wonder and the team at Wonder Family Dental & Dentures in Poulsbo are happy to help. Give us a call at (360) 779-1566 or request an appointment online.