Tooth pain when biting

Biting pain is a symptom pattern rather than a diagnosis. It can suggest that pressure on a tooth or surrounding tissues needs assessment, especially if it is localised or worsening.

• A cracked, chipped or weakened tooth.
• A high or failing filling, crown or other restoration.
• Gum inflammation, abscess or biting trauma.
• Recent dental work or a change in the way the teeth meet.

• Chew on the other side if this reduces discomfort while arranging advice.
• Keep the area clean with gentle brushing.
• Make a note of when the pain happens and whether it is getting worse.

• Do not keep testing the tooth by biting hard objects.
• Do not ignore pain linked with swelling, fever or a bad taste.
• Do not attempt to file or adjust a filling or crown yourself.

• Pain when biting lasts more than a short period or keeps returning.
• A recent filling, crown or root canal treatment feels high or painful.
• The tooth feels cracked, mobile, sharp or changed.

• Pain is severe, worsening or affects eating or sleeping.
• There is swelling, fever, a bad taste or difficulty opening the mouth.
• Symptoms follow trauma or the tooth has moved position.

• Check the bite and look for cracks, decay, gum problems or restoration issues.
• Take X-rays or vitality tests where clinically appropriate.
• Adjust, repair, protect or treat the tooth depending on the assessment.