When Chewing Suddenly Hurts
Pain when biting can be associated with several dental problems, including:
- Cracked teeth
- Deep decay
- Infection
- Loose crowns
- Broken fillings
- Bite-related trauma
- Problems around an existing restoration
Avoid repeatedly testing a painful tooth by biting on it. Contact our office so the problem can be evaluated.
Emergencies Involving Crowns and Bridges
Restorations can loosen, fracture, or become uncomfortable over time.
If a crown comes off:
- Save it
- Avoid chewing on the tooth
- Keep the area clean
- Do not permanently glue the crown back yourself
- Contact our office
If a bridge becomes loose or uncomfortable, avoid placing excessive pressure on it until the supporting teeth can be evaluated.
Restoring Function After an Emergency
Treatment may involve:
- Dental fillings
- Dental crowns
- Dental bridges
- Root canal treatment
- Dental bonding
- Tooth extraction
- Tooth-replacement planning
The goal is to address the immediate problem while also considering how the tooth fits into your overall bite and your ability to chew comfortably.
What if a Molar Cracks?
Back teeth absorb significant chewing forces and can sometimes fracture around old fillings or weakened areas.
A cracked molar may cause sharp pain when biting, sensitivity, or discomfort that comes and goes.
Some cracked teeth can be restored with a crown. Others may require root canal treatment or another procedure depending on how deeply the crack extends.
Avoid chewing on the tooth until it can be evaluated.
When a Lost Restoration Doesn’t Hurt
A crown, filling, or bridge problem does not have to be painful to deserve attention.
The exposed tooth may still be vulnerable to additional fracture, decay, or sensitivity.
Contact our office rather than waiting for pain to develop.
Emergency Dental Care in Peoria
Thunderbird Dental Studio is located at 8258 W Thunderbird Rd #201, Peoria, AZ 85381.
Our office is convenient for patients living and working around Thunderbird Road, 83rd Avenue, and nearby central Peoria neighborhoods.
If dental pain or a damaged restoration makes eating uncomfortable, contact us so we can determine what is causing the problem and help restore comfortable function.
Frequently Asked Questions About Emergency Dentistry in Peoria
Why does my tooth hurt when I chew?
Pain while biting can result from a crack, infection, inflammation, decay, or a problem involving an existing filling or crown. The tooth should be examined to determine the cause.
What should I do if a crown comes loose?
Avoid chewing on the affected tooth and contact our office. If the crown comes completely off, save it and bring it with you.
Is a broken bridge a dental emergency?
A broken or loose bridge should be evaluated promptly because it may affect your ability to chew and can place stress on the supporting teeth.
Can a cracked molar be repaired?
Many cracked molars can be treated, but the appropriate treatment depends on how deeply the crack extends. Options may include a crown, root canal treatment, or another procedure.
What should I do if a filling falls out?
Keep the area clean, avoid chewing on the tooth, and contact our office. The tooth may be more vulnerable to sensitivity or additional damage.
Is swelling around a painful tooth an emergency?
Swelling may indicate a dental infection and should be evaluated promptly. Severe swelling involving the face or neck or difficulty breathing or swallowing requires emergency medical care.
Do I need an emergency appointment for persistent tooth pain?
Persistent pain should be evaluated rather than waiting for it to become severe. Dental pain often indicates an underlying problem that is unlikely to permanently resolve on its own.
Need an Emergency Dentist in Peoria?
Thunderbird Dental Studio
8258 W Thunderbird Rd #201
Peoria, AZ 85381
(623) 933-6010
Contact our office if tooth pain, a cracked molar, or damaged dental work is making it difficult to eat or function comfortably.
