When it comes to dental health, experiencing pain or discomfort can be quite concerning. One common issue that people encounter is feeling discomfort in their dental bridge when they chew. If you’re facing this problem, you may be wondering, “Why does my bridge hurt when I chew?”
In this thorough post, we’ll examine the potential causes of this discomfort and provide you with valuable insights to address the issue effectively. So let’s get started!
How Does a Dental Bridge Work?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic appliance used to replace missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored to the adjacent teeth or dental implants.
A dental bridge works by utilizing the support of healthy teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap created by missing teeth. The healthy teeth, called abutment teeth, act as anchors for the bridge, while the artificial teeth fill in the gap, creating a seamless and natural-looking smile.
The bridge is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, ensuring a harmonious blend.
Why Does My Bridge Hurt When I Chew?
Experiencing pain or discomfort when chewing with your dental bridge can be attributed to various factors. It is essential to understand that dental bridges, like any dental restoration, require proper care and maintenance to ensure their longevity and functionality.
Let’s explore some of the common causes of bridge discomfort and pain.
- Poor Fit: If your dental bridge is not fitted properly, it can cause discomfort while chewing. A poorly fitting bridge may put excess pressure on the abutment teeth or create gaps, leading to pain and irritation.
- High Bite Pressure: Excessive bite pressure on the bridge can result from habits like clenching your jaw or grinding your teeth. This constant pressure can strain the bridge and surrounding teeth, causing pain during chewing.
- Infection or Decay: Underlying dental issues such as tooth decay or infection can cause pain when you chew with a dental bridge. Infection or decay in the abutment teeth can transmit pain sensations to the bridge, resulting in discomfort.
- Root Canal Issues: If one of the abutment teeth has undergone a root canal procedure, complications or infections associated with the treatment can cause discomfort while chewing.
- Gum Disease: Periodontal conditions like gum disease can weaken the supporting structures around the abutment teeth, compromising the stability of the dental bridge. This instability can lead to pain and discomfort during chewing.
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder: TMJ disorder affects the joint connecting your jawbone to your skull. Misalignment or inflammation of the TMJ can result in pain when you chew with a dental bridge.
- Allergic Reactions: In some cases, individuals may have an allergic reaction to the materials used in their dental bridge. This allergic response can cause discomfort and pain while chewing.
- Dental Cement Issues: If the dental bridge is not securely bonded with the abutment teeth due to issues with the dental cement, it can lead to pain and movement of the bridge during chewing.
- Dental Bridge Material Sensitivity: Certain individuals may have sensitivities or allergies to specific dental bridge materials, resulting in pain and discomfort when chewing.
- Improper Oral Hygiene: Insufficient oral hygiene practices, such as inadequate brushing and flossing around the dental bridge, can lead to plaque accumulation and gum inflammation. This can cause pain and discomfort during chewing.
- Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can exert excessive pressure on the dental bridge, causing pain and discomfort. People often grind their teeth during sleep, unknowingly putting strain on the bridge.
- Structural Damage: Accidental trauma or injury to the dental bridge can cause structural damage, resulting in pain during chewing.
- Nerve Irritation: Irritation or inflammation of the nerves around the dental bridge can cause pain and discomfort.
- Bite Misalignment: An improper bite alignment can cause excessive stress on the dental bridge, leading to discomfort while chewing.
- Adjacent Tooth Problems: Issues with the teeth adjacent to the dental bridge, such as decay, infection, or misalignment, can affect the stability and functionality of the bridge, causing pain during chewing.
- Bone Resorption: Over time, the bone supporting the dental bridge may undergo resorption, leading to a change in the bridge’s fit and stability. This can result in discomfort while chewing.
- Trauma or Injury: Any trauma or injury to the dental bridge or surrounding oral structures can cause pain and discomfort.
- Sinus Problems: Sinus issues, such as sinusitis or sinus infections, can cause referred pain to the dental bridge area, resulting in discomfort while chewing.
- Psychological Factors: Emotional stress or anxiety can contribute to clenching or grinding of teeth, leading to discomfort when chewing with a dental bridge.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as temporomandibular joint disorders or autoimmune diseases, can cause or exacerbate bridge discomfort during chewing.
- Aging and Wear: Over time, the dental bridge may undergo natural wear and tear, which can affect its fit and functionality, resulting in pain while chewing.
- Bridge Material Degradation: With time, the materials used in the dental bridge may deteriorate, leading to discomfort and pain during chewing.
- Inadequate Bridge Design: Poorly designed bridges may create uneven pressure distribution, causing pain and discomfort during chewing.
- Overloading the Bridge: Excessive force or pressure applied to the dental bridge, such as biting on hard objects or using the bridge beyond its intended function, can lead to pain and discomfort.
- Inadequate Maintenance: Neglecting proper oral hygiene practices and regular dental check-ups can contribute to bridge-related issues, resulting in discomfort while chewing.
Conclusion
Experiencing pain or discomfort when chewing with a dental bridge can significantly impact your quality of life. Understanding the possible causes of bridge pain and discomfort is crucial for effective management and resolution.
If you’re facing this issue, it is recommended to consult a dental professional who can evaluate your specific situation and provide personalized guidance. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene, regular dental check-ups, and seeking timely treatment are key to ensuring the longevity and functionality of your dental bridge.