That sudden, sharp jolt of pain when you bite into your food is unmistakable. It can turn a pleasant meal into a stressful experience, making you wonder what’s wrong. Is it serious? Should you call a dentist? If you’re experiencing tooth pain when you bite down, it’s your body’s way of signaling that something needs attention. At Decatur Smiles, Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller and her team are ready to help patients from Decatur, Hartselle, and Moulton find relief and protect their oral health.
Is Severe Tooth Pain a Dental Emergency?
Yes, severe tooth pain, especially when it appears suddenly, should be treated as a dental emergency. This type of pain often indicates an underlying problem that won’t resolve on its own. Ignoring it can lead to more complex issues, greater discomfort, and potentially more expensive treatments down the road. Prompt action is the key to preventing complications.
If you experience sudden, intense pain when chewing or biting, the first thing to do is gently rinse your mouth with warm salt water to clean the area. Avoid chewing on the affected side and call your dentist immediately. At Decatur Smiles, we prioritize dental emergencies to get you out of pain as quickly as possible.
Did I Chip or Break My Tooth?
One of the most common reasons for sharp pain upon biting is a chipped, cracked, or broken tooth. In fact, a broken tooth is a leading reason patients seek emergency dental care in Decatur. This can happen in several ways:
- Accidents: A fall or a blow to the face can easily fracture a tooth.
- Biting Hard Objects: Chewing on ice, hard candy, or even an unpopped popcorn kernel can cause a tooth to break.
- Decay: A large cavity can weaken the tooth structure from the inside, making it susceptible to fracturing under normal chewing pressure.
When a tooth breaks, it can expose the sensitive inner layers, known as the dentin and pulp. This exposure is what causes the intense pain. More importantly, it creates an entry point for bacteria, which can lead to a serious infection or abscess.
Your Next Step: Contact Decatur Smiles
Don’t wait for the pain to become unbearable. If you feel a sharp pain when you bite down, it’s a clear sign that you need professional dental care. Dr. Stephanie Teichmiller at Decatur Smiles has the expertise to diagnose the cause of your pain and provide effective treatment. We proudly serve the communities of Decatur, Hartselle, and Moulton, offering compassionate and prompt emergency dental services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and find lasting relief.
Contact Decatur Smiles:
256-350-5820
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1316 Somerville Rd SE Ste 2
Decatur, Alabama
35601
