Why do I have tooth pain when I bite down? Possible causes and what to do next
- Rachel Barrow
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Why does my tooth hurt when I bite down? Possible causes and what to do next
Tooth pain can strike unexpectedly—especially when chewing or biting. If you’ve noticed sharp discomfort or pressure in a specific tooth when you eat, it’s a sign that something deeper may be going on.
At Rumney Endodontics in Cardiff, we often see patients experiencing tooth pain when biting who aren’t sure what’s causing it or when to seek help. This blog explores some of the most common causes of bite-related tooth pain, how they’re treated, and what to do if the discomfort won’t go away.
Common reasons for tooth pain when biting
While it may feel like a simple sensitivity or dull ache, pain when biting is rarely a symptom you should ignore. Here are some of the most likely causes:
1. Cracked toothA hairline crack can run through the tooth without being visible to the naked eye. These cracks often cause intermittent pain, especially when pressure is applied while biting down or chewing. Without treatment, the crack can deepen and eventually cause the tooth to split or become infected.
2. Pulp inflammation or infectionThe inner pulp of the tooth contains nerves and blood vessels. If it becomes inflamed due to decay or trauma, you may feel throbbing pain, pressure, or a sensation of heat or cold—particularly when chewing. This is often a sign that a root canal may be needed.
3. Gum disease or abscessAdvanced gum disease or an infection around the tooth root can lead to pain when biting, as pressure aggravates the area. In some cases, a gum abscess may form, causing swelling and a bad taste in the mouth.
4. Loose fillings or crownsDental restorations that have become loose or cracked can shift under pressure when chewing, leading to sharp or uneven discomfort.
5. Bite misalignment or clenchingIf your bite has changed or you clench your teeth (often during sleep), it can place undue stress on certain teeth, causing them to become sensitive or painful over time.
When to see a dentist or endodontist
If you’ve experienced tooth pain when biting more than once or the discomfort is worsening, it’s time to book an appointment. At Rumney Endodontics, we offer both general and specialist care—so you can receive an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan without delay.
You should definitely get in touch if:
The pain occurs consistently when biting
The tooth is cracked, chipped or darkening
There’s swelling around the gum or jaw
You feel lingering sensitivity to hot or cold
You’ve had a recent trauma or dental procedure
Our experienced team will carry out a thorough clinical exam, often combined with digital x-rays or 3D CBCT scans to examine the tooth structure and surrounding tissues in detail.
How we treat bite-related tooth pain
Your treatment will depend on the cause, but may include:
Root canal treatment – If the pulp is inflamed or infected, a root canal is often the best way to relieve pain and save the tooth. At Rumney Endodontics, we use advanced techniques and specialist tools to ensure your comfort and long-term success.
Restorative treatment – Loose or broken fillings can be replaced, and cracked teeth can often be bonded or crowned.
Gum treatment – If the pain is gum-related, deep cleaning or referral for periodontal therapy may be required.
Occlusal adjustments – In cases of bite misalignment or bruxism, we may recommend a custom night guard or adjustments to protect the tooth from further damage.
Why choose Rumney Endodontics in Cardiff?
We’re more than just a Cardiff dental practice. As a specialist-led clinic, we offer expert diagnostics and treatment for complex cases of dental pain and infection.
Dr Andrew Bartley and Dr Cassandra Maunder are highly experienced endodontists, trained to deal with everything from subtle fractures to complex root canal re-treatment. Our on-site technology, including microscopes and CBCT imaging, allows us to detect issues that can be missed in general practice.
Even if you’ve been told your tooth “looks fine” elsewhere, we’re happy to offer a second opinion and explore all options to relieve your discomfort.
Protecting your future oral health
We believe the best way to manage tooth pain when biting is to stop it before it starts. That’s why we encourage all patients to attend regular dental check-ups in Cardiff and hygiene appointments, so we can spot any risks before they become painful.
We also offer membership plans that include:
2 dental check-ups per year
2 scale and polish hygiene visits
10% discount on treatments
Emergency cover, even when overseas
It’s an easy and affordable way to stay on top of your oral health and reduce the chance of urgent dental issues.
Book your appointment today
If you’re experiencing tooth pain when biting, don’t wait for it to get worse. The team at Rumney Endodontics and Dental Care is here to help you find relief—and restore your smile with confidence.