Pain when you bite down usually means pressure is being placed on a tooth that’s already irritated. The most common causes are a cracked tooth, a large cavity, a failing filling, or inflammation inside the tooth. Sometimes clenching or grinding while you sleep can also leave one tooth feeling sore.
Until you’re seen, try to chew on the opposite side of your mouth. Waiting too long can allow a crack to become larger or the tooth to break, making treatment more complicated.
The good news is that pain when biting doesn’t automatically mean you need a root canal. After an exam and any necessary X-rays, we’ll explain what’s causing the pain and discuss the treatment options that are right for you.