How to Deal with Tooth Pain When Tapping and Biting
Tooth Pain upon Tapping and Biting: What Does It Mean and What Are the Possible Causes?
Tooth pain when tapping or biting is a common symptom that can indicate various health problems in the oral cavity. This type of pain is often very unpleasant and can disrupt daily life. When you feel pain upon tapping a tooth or when biting, it is usually a sign that something is wrong with that tooth. This article focuses on the most common causes of these issues, their symptoms, and treatment options.
What Causes Tooth Pain upon Tapping?
Tooth pain upon tapping can be caused by various factors that require the attention of a dentist. One of the main causes is inflammation of the dental pulp, medically known as pulpitis. This inflammation is usually the result of untreated tooth decay that reaches the nerves inside the tooth. The inflammation can be acute or chronic, and in both cases it can cause pain not only upon tapping but also spontaneously, without apparent stimulus. Acute inflammation may cause sharp, throbbing pain, while chronic inflammation can lead to persistent discomfort and sensitivity of the tooth.
Pulpitis is a condition that requires immediate medical care. If not diagnosed and treated in time, the inflammation can spread to surrounding tissues and cause an abscess, a serious infection that can also threaten the patient's overall health.
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Inflammation of Surrounding Tissues and Its Impact on Tooth Pain
Another common cause of tooth pain upon tapping and biting is inflammation of the surrounding tissues, which arises from chronic inflammation of the tooth root or periodontitis. This condition can manifest not only as pain upon tapping but also as gum swelling, tooth sensitivity to touch, and a feeling of pressure in the jaw area. Inflammation of the surrounding tissues often results from untreated decay or incompletely treated root canals.
If periodontitis is not treated in time, it can lead to more serious problems, such as tooth loss or damage to the jawbone. Therefore, it is crucial for the patient to seek professional help as soon as the first symptoms of pain appear.
Cracks in the Tooth and Their Symptoms
Sometimes, tooth pain upon tapping can also occur due to a crack in the tooth, which may not be visible to the naked eye. These microscopic cracks can develop from various causes, such as injuries, sudden temperature changes (for example, when consuming hot and cold drinks), or teeth grinding (bruxism). Cracks in the tooth cause sensitivity to pressure, temperature changes, and sometimes to sweet or acidic foods.
This type of pain can be very difficult to diagnose because cracks are not always visible on standard X-rays. If a crack in the tooth is suspected, a dentist may recommend special tests or 3D imaging to accurately identify the problem.
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Tooth Pain When Biting: Occlusion as a Possible Cause
Improper alignment of teeth, also known as malocclusion, can be another reason for tooth pain when biting. When biting, the teeth should naturally fit together. However, if the dental occlusion is disrupted, for example, due to improperly placed fillings, crowns, or orthodontic issues, it can lead to unnatural pressure on some teeth. This pressure can cause pain when biting or tapping and may gradually lead to other complications, such as wear of tooth enamel or problems with the jaw joints.
Occlusal problems can be addressed through various treatment methods, including adjustments to existing fillings, use of occlusal splints, or orthodontic treatment. It is important to correct the occlusion as soon as possible to prevent further complications.
Do Not Underestimate Tooth Pain upon Tapping and Biting
Regardless of the cause of tooth pain upon tapping and biting, it is important to realize that these symptoms should not be ignored. Pain that occurs when tapping a tooth or when biting is a warning sign that there is a problem in the mouth that requires medical attention. Even if the pain subsides temporarily, it does not mean the problem has disappeared. On the contrary, untreated issues can worsen over time and lead to more serious complications.
A dentist can determine the exact cause of the pain based on a clinical examination, X-rays, and other diagnostic methods, and propose appropriate treatment. This process may involve simple procedures, such as filling repairs, or more complex procedures, such as root canal treatments or, in severe cases, even tooth extraction.
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Early Diagnosis Is Key to Success
The sooner a patient consults a professional, the greater the chances of successfully resolving the problem without complications. Tooth pain upon tapping and biting is not a condition that should be overlooked. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to keeping your teeth healthy and pain-free.
What to Do If You Have Tooth Pain upon Tapping or Biting?
If you are experiencing tooth pain upon tapping or biting, the first step should always be to visit a dentist. Many people try to alleviate the pain with painkillers, but these only mask the symptoms without addressing the cause. A professional examination is necessary to determine the true cause of the pain and initiate appropriate treatment.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Regular visits to the dentist, proper oral hygiene, and prompt response to any changes in the condition of your teeth are the best ways to keep your teeth healthy and functional.
