Sharp Pain in Tooth When Chewing Gum: What Could Be Causing It?

Experiencing a sudden sharp pain in a tooth when chewing gum can be alarming and uncomfortable. It can cause you to hesitate before chewing gum or even eating certain foods. While gum is often considered harmless, it can sometimes trigger significant discomfort, especially if your teeth have an underlying issue. If you feel a sharp pain in your tooth when chewing gum, it’s important to understand the potential causes and seek the appropriate dental treatment to address the problem.

In this blog, we’ll explore the possible reasons for tooth pain while chewing gum, from sensitive teeth to more serious conditions like cracked teeth or tooth decay, and discuss effective treatments to help alleviate discomfort.

Common Causes of Sharp Pain in Tooth When Chewing Gum

When chewing gum causes a sharp, stabbing pain in a tooth, it may be a symptom of an underlying dental issue. Below are some of the common causes of this discomfort:

1. Tooth Sensitivity

Tooth sensitivity is one of the most common causes of sharp pain when chewing gum. Sensitive teeth can hurt when exposed to certain stimuli, such as hot or cold foods, acidic foods, or even chewing. The pain occurs when the protective tooth enamel wears down, exposing the underlying layer called dentin.

When you chew gum, the pressure on the tooth can exacerbate sensitivity, especially if the gum line has receded or if the exposed dentin is particularly sensitive. This can lead to a sharp pain that can be very uncomfortable.

Tooth sensitivity can occur in a specific tooth or across several teeth. If you experience pain when biting into gum, it’s a good idea to consult your dentist for treatment, which may include desensitizing toothpaste or other methods to reduce discomfort.

2. Cracked Tooth

A cracked tooth is another potential reason for experiencing sharp pain while chewing gum. Cracks in a tooth can develop from trauma, tooth grinding, or enamel erosion over time. The pressure from chewing gum can cause a cracked tooth to flex, triggering sharp dental pain.

If the crack extends to the inner part of the tooth, it may expose the tooth roots, causing pain when pressure is applied. A dental exam is necessary to determine the extent of the crack and whether root canal therapy or other restorative treatments are required.

3. Tooth Decay and Cavities

Tooth decay is another common cause of pain when chewing gum. If tooth decay has created a cavity in the tooth, the decay can expose sensitive areas within the tooth, causing sharp pain when pressure is applied. Gum chewing, which can cause extra pressure on the tooth, may trigger a painful sensation.

If the cavity is large, it may require a filling to restore the tooth and alleviate pain. In some cases, if the decay has reached the tooth’s nerve, a root canal may be necessary to treat the infection and stop the pain.

4. Gum Disease (Gingivitis or Periodontal Disease)

Gum disease can also cause discomfort when chewing, especially in the later stages. Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, causes the gums to become inflamed and swollen, leading to sensitivity around the affected area. While gingivitis is usually painless, periodontal disease can cause more severe pain and gum recession.

When swollen gums or gum recession occurs, the exposed tooth roots can cause discomfort when pressure is applied, such as when chewing gum. Gum disease can be managed through improved oral hygiene, regular dental cleanings, and, in more severe cases, periodontal surgery or deep cleaning treatments to restore gum health.

5. Dental Abscess

A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms due to an infection in the tooth or gums. This infection typically results from untreated tooth decay or a cracked tooth. Dental abscesses can lead to severe pain, swelling, and sensitivity around the affected tooth. Chewing gum or applying pressure to the abscessed area may cause sharp pain due to the inflamed tissue and infection beneath the surface.

A dental abscess requires immediate treatment by a dentist, as the infection can spread to other areas of the body. Treatment typically involves draining the abscess, prescribing antibiotics, and possibly performing a root canal or tooth extraction, depending on the severity of the infection.

6. Exposed Tooth Roots

When the gums recede or shrink, they can expose the tooth roots, which are not protected by the thick layer of enamel that covers the rest of the tooth. Exposed tooth roots can cause sharp pain, especially when chewing gum, as the pressure can stimulate the sensitive areas of the tooth. This issue is often associated with gum recession due to gum disease or aging.

Treatment for exposed tooth roots may involve gum grafting procedures to restore gum tissue or desensitizing toothpaste to reduce discomfort.

7. Loose or Damaged Fillings

If you have an old or loose filling, chewing gum can put extra pressure on the affected tooth, causing sharp pain. Damaged fillings can leave the tooth vulnerable to bacteria and irritation, leading to tooth sensitivity and pain when biting or chewing.

A dentist can replace or repair loose fillings to prevent further pain and seal the tooth properly.

8. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)

Teeth grinding or bruxism can also lead to discomfort when chewing gum. Grinding your teeth can wear down the tooth enamel, expose dentin, and cause tooth sensitivity. The pressure from chewing gum can aggravate this dental pain, especially if there is already damage to the tooth surface.

If teeth grinding is the issue, a dentist may recommend wearing a night guard to protect the teeth from damage and reduce the occurrence of sensitive teeth.

9. Sinus Infection

Sometimes, a sinus infection can cause pain in the upper teeth, especially when chewing. The sinuses are located near the roots of the upper teeth, and pressure from a sinus infection can irritate the sensitive tooth roots. Although sharp pain is usually more common in the upper teeth, it can also radiate to the lower teeth. If a sinus infection is causing your pain, treating the infection with antibiotics and other medications can help alleviate the discomfort.

Treatment for Sharp Pain in the Tooth When Chewing Gum

1. Desensitizing Toothpaste

If you have sensitive teeth, desensitizing toothpaste can help alleviate discomfort. These toothpastes contain compounds that block the channels leading to the tooth’s nerve, reducing tooth sensitivity and providing relief.

2. Visit the Dentist

If the pain persists, it is essential to visit a dentist for a professional evaluation. The dentist can determine the root cause of the sharp pain and recommend appropriate treatment, such as fillings, root canals, or treatments for gum disease.

3. Gum Disease Treatment

If gum disease is the cause, your dentist may recommend scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line. In more severe cases, periodontal surgery may be necessary.

4. Avoid Irritating Foods

If you have sensitive teeth, avoid foods and drinks that can exacerbate the discomfort, such as cold foods, acidic foods, and sugary snacks. Chewing gum with these issues should also be avoided until the problem is resolved.

5. Use a Soft-Bristled Toothbrush

A soft-bristled toothbrush can help prevent further irritation to sensitive teeth and gums. Brushing with too much pressure can damage the tooth enamel and increase tooth sensitivity.

Conclusion

Sharp pain in a tooth when chewing gum can be a sign of various underlying issues, from sensitive teeth to cracked teeth, gum disease, or a dental abscess. Understanding the cause of the pain is crucial for choosing the right treatment. If you experience persistent pain, you must visit a dentist for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment. Whether desensitizing toothpaste or root canal therapy, seeking professional dental care with Dr Jack Bella Vista Dentist is essential to resolving the issue and maintaining long-term oral health.