Chewing Should Not Be a Painful Process

Posted on 3/3/2025 by Madison Family Dental

Female patient consulting with a dentist about severe tooth pain during an emergency dental appointment in a clinic.

Have you been experiencing pain while chewing? Does the simple act of biting into an apple or your favorite sandwich leave you wincing? If so, you're not alone. Many people experience chewing pain, and it can significantly impact their quality of life.

But the good news is that chewing pain is not something you have to live with. It is often a symptom of an underlying oral health issue that can be diagnosed and treated by your dentist.

Causes of Chewing Pain

There are many potential causes of chewing pain. Some of the most common include:

•	Tooth decay: This is the most common cause of chewing pain. When decay reaches the inner layer of the tooth (the pulp), it can cause inflammation and pain.
•	Gum disease: Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the supporting tissues around your teeth. This can lead to loose teeth, pain, and even tooth loss.
•	Cracked or fractured teeth: A cracked or fractured tooth can cause pain when you bite down on it.
•	Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that can form at the root of a tooth or in the gums. This can cause severe pain and swelling.
•	Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders: TMJ disorders are problems with the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull. This can cause pain in the jaw, face, and ears.
•	Other medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as arthritis, can also cause chewing pain.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you are experiencing chewing pain, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible. They will be able to diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend the best course of treatment.

The treatment for chewing pain will vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

•	Fillings: If the pain is caused by tooth decay, a filling may be placed to restore the tooth.
•	Root canal: If the pulp of the tooth is infected, a root canal may be necessary to remove the infected tissue.
•	Crown: If a tooth is cracked or fractured, a crown may be placed to protect the tooth and restore its function.
•	Gum disease treatment: If the pain is caused by gum disease, your dentist will recommend a treatment plan to control the infection and prevent further damage.
•	TMJ treatment: If the pain is caused by a TMJ disorder, your dentist may recommend a variety of treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or mouth guards.

Restoration Dentistry

In some cases, chewing pain may be caused by missing or damaged teeth. In these cases, restoration dentistry can help restore your smile and function. Restoration dentistry includes procedures such as:

•	Dental implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. They provide a strong and stable foundation for replacement teeth.
•	Bridges: Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are typically anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap.
•	Dentures: Dentures are removable replacements for missing teeth. They can be full or partial, depending on the number of teeth that are missing.

Maintaining Oral Health

The best way to prevent chewing pain is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.

By following these tips, you can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent chewing pain. If you are experiencing chewing pain, don't hesitate to see your dentist. They can help you find the cause of your pain and get the treatment you need to feel better.

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Madison, WI 53719

608-274-5970

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Dentist Madison WI • About Madison Family Dental Associates
Madison Family Dental Associates is known as a leader in preventive dentistry with more than 40 years of experience providing care in the Madison area.
Madison Family Dental Associates, 5709 Odana Rd., Madison, WI 53719 ~ 608-274-5970 ~ madisonfamilydental.com ~ 6/12/2025 ~ Page Keywords: dentist Madison WI ~