My Teeth Hurt When I Eat

Any pain in your tooth should not be ignored, no matter the cause. When tooth pain occurs only during meal times and then fades, it can be tempting to ignore the experience. However, any toothache can be a sign that a more serious dental issue exists and should be treated in our office right away.

What causes tooth pain during meals?

There are a number of dental issues that can cause you to say “my teeth hurt when I eat.” One of the main causes is a condition known as dentin hypersensitivity. This causes teeth to become very sensitive to certain tastes, most commonly sweets. In addition, teeth may also become extremely sensitive to hot and cold temperatures. The tooth pain usually occurs suddenly and is quite severe, but only lasts for a short period of time.

Another cause of tooth pain when you eat is tooth decay. When a cavity forms, it exposes the dentin and tooth nerve, which can become irritated when food particles enter the cavity. This causes sharp, aching pain that may take some time to fade. Once the debris is brushed away, the sensation in the tooth often returns to normal.

Finally, a tooth that has previously had a root canal may become sensitive to hot and cold foods. This pain feels very similar to dentin hypersensitivity, and usually occurs when you bite down. This occurs as the area inside your tooth heals following the root canal, and should only last for a few weeks. If the sensitivity persists beyond this point, it is important that you contact Dr. Osorio.

How is this type of tooth pain treated?

If you are experiencing tooth pain when you eat, the treatment will depend largely upon the cause of your pain. In the case of dentin hypersensitivity, you may be advised to change your brushing technique. Many adults mistakenly use a hard-bristled toothbrush, which can damage the teeth, causing them to be sensitive.

In some cases, a poor diet can also cause dentin hypersensitivity. It is important to make sure that you are receiving proper nutrition, particularly correct amounts of Vitamin C. Failing to do so can cause your teeth to become very sensitive. If Dr. Osorio believes that poor nutrition is the cause of your sensitivity, he may advise that you begin taking a vitamin supplement to help protect your dental health.

If you experience tooth sensitivity following a root canal or other dental appointment, you may need to use a special toothpaste that is designed to eliminate this symptom for a time. Contact our office as soon as the pain begins to occur so that Dr. Osorio can recommend the product that would be best for your situation. In some cases, an antibiotic or anti-inflammatory medication may also be recommended.