Too Painful to Chew
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Try one of these related symptoms.
Pain when I chew
It hurts when I chew
Pain when chewing after filling
Ear pain when I chew
Pain when I bite down
Tooth pain after chewing gum
Hard to chew
About the Symptom
Describes pain during chewing that makes it difficult to chew, eat, or swallow. It is often due to issues with the jaw, muscles of chewing, throat pain, or even dental problems. Causes include infection, inflammation, and tumors or masses.
When to See a Doctor
Seek professional care if you experience any of the following symptoms
- Abnormal sensation (tingling, prickling)
- Palpitation
- Numbness of the body
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Numbness / sensory disorder
- Muscle weakness in the limbs
- Headache
Possible Causes
Generally, Too painful to chew can be related to:
- Spinal Canal Stenosis
Narrowing of the canal surrounding the nerves. It can be caused by normal wear and tear of the spine or by a previous injury to the region.
- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy
Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) or chronic relapsing polyneuropathy happens when the immune system attacks the myelin sheaths (protective fatty coverings) around the nerves. The exact triggers are unclear but could be systemic conditions like liver disease, diabetes, infections, cancer, immune system disorders, etc.
Related Serious Diseases
Sometimes, Too painful to chew may be related to these serious diseases:
- Mumps
A highly contagious infection caused by the mumps virus. Swelling of the salivary glands on the face usually starts within a few days of catching the virus. There may be pain or tenderness around the swelling as well.
Doctor's Diagnostic Questions
Your doctor may ask these questions to check for this symptom:
- Is chewing painful for you?
- How has your chewing difficulty changed since it started?
- How long have you experienced difficulty chewing due to pain?
- How often do you experience difficulty breathing due to pain?
Reviewed By:
Eric A. Gantwerker, MD, MMSC (Otolaryngology (ENT))
Pediatric Otolaryngologist at Northwell Health and Associate Professor of Otolaryngology at Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell. He holds a Master of Medical Science (MMSc) in Medical Education with a special focus on educational technology, educational research, and game-based learning from Harvard Medical School and a Master of Science in Physiology and Biophysics from Georgetown University. He has a special interest in faculty development and has been a speaker or faculty at hundreds of local, national, and international courses and conferences. He is also an active blogger and podcaster for several organizations, including the Harvard Macy Institute (HMI), Harvard Medical School CME Online, and BackTable Innovations. He has been featured in the news and print for media outlets such as USA Today, Businesswire, The Washington Post, Nature Medicine, Fox News, and KevinMD. He was also the Vice President, Medical Director of a medical video game company, Level Ex from 2018 to 2023 that utilized game technology and psychology to create interactive experiences for healthcare professionals. | He is recognized as an expert on the implementation of educational technologies and gaming with a foundation in educational theory for health professions education. He was honored to be inducted as an Associate Member of the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Academy of Master Surgeon Educators and as an Associate Fellow of the Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE).
Yoshinori Abe, MD (Internal Medicine)
Dr. Abe graduated from The University of Tokyo School of Medicine in 2015. He completed his residency at the Tokyo Metropolitan Health and Longevity Medical Center. He co-founded Ubie, Inc. in May 2017, where he currently serves as CEO & product owner at Ubie. Since December 2019, he has been a member of the Special Committee for Activation of Research in Emergency AI of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine. | | Dr. Abe has been elected in the 2020 Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia Healthcare & Science category.
Content updated on Feb 6, 2025
Following the Medical Content Editorial Policy
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- Hard to chew because it hurts
- It hurts when I try to chew
- I can't bite food with pain
- Painful and unable to chew
- Have problems chewing
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FAQs
Q.
Canker Sore Pain? Why Your Mouth Hurts & Medically Approved Next Steps
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Most canker sores are harmless, noncontagious mouth ulcers that hurt because irritated, exposed nerves are triggered; they often heal in 1-2 weeks, and medically approved canker sore treatment options like topical corticosteroid gels, numbing products, hydrogen peroxide rinses, protective pastes, and supportive home care can ease pain and speed recovery. There are several factors and red flags to consider, such as sores lasting more than 2-3 weeks, very large or frequent sores, or pain that prevents eating or drinking, especially with fever, swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, diarrhea, or joint pain. See below for complete guidance on causes, prevention, and the right next steps, including when to seek medical care.
References:
* Agarwal A, et al. Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: An Update on Etiology, Clinical Features, and Management. J Clin Diagn Res. 2023 Apr 1;17(4):ZE01-ZE05. doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2023/59357.17839. Epub 2023 Apr 18. PMID: 37376722.
* Dong X, et al. Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: New insights into etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment. Front Immunol. 2022 Sep 12;13:964789. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.964789. PMID: 36176318; PMCID: PMC9512395.
* Han X, et al. Immunopathogenesis of Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis. Front Immunol. 2021 Jun 25;12:699311. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.699311. PMID: 34249110; PMCID: PMC8267232.
* Shetty P, et al. Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: Etiology, pathogenesis and treatment. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol. 2017 Jan-Apr;21(1):201-205. doi: 10.4103/0973-029X.203875. PMID: 28216892; PMCID: PMC5309328.
* Al-Maweri SA, et al. Efficacy of different treatment modalities for recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Oral Pathol Med. 2023 Sep;52(8):666-681. doi: 10.1111/jop.13401. Epub 2023 May 27. PMID: 37243936.
Q.
Scared of your tooth extraction? Why your gum is throbbing and the medically approved next steps.
A.
Some throbbing after a tooth extraction is normal as the area heals, with pain usually peaking in 24 to 48 hours then easing; protect the blood clot and reduce inflammation by biting on gauze, using ice the first day, taking ibuprofen or prescribed pain meds as directed, eating soft foods, and starting gentle saltwater rinses after 24 hours while avoiding smoking, straws, vigorous rinsing, and hard foods. Call your dentist if pain worsens after day 3, you develop severe pain 2 to 4 days with bad taste or an empty socket that may indicate dry socket, swelling or fever appears, or chewing becomes increasingly painful, and seek urgent care for spreading facial swelling, trouble breathing or swallowing, or high fever. There are several factors to consider, and the complete medically approved next steps and timelines are detailed below.
References:
* Kumar S, Singh N, Kumar A, Kumar R, Kumar V, Sahani SK. Management of Postextraction Pain: A Review of the Current Literature. Anesth Essays Res. 2018 Apr-Jun;12(2):332-337. doi: 10.4103/aer.AER_19_18. PMID: 29875560.
* Kolokythas A, Olech E, Miloro M. Alveolar osteitis: a comprehensive review for diagnosis and management. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2009 May;67(5):989-98. doi: 10.1016/j.joms.2008.12.016. PMID: 19446979.
* Sanchis-Bielsa JM, Sanchis-Bielsa C, Sanchis-Gimeno L, Sanchis-Gimeno R, Bagán JV. Post-extraction complications: a literature review. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2014 Jan 1;19(1):e27-33. doi: 10.4317/medoral.19010. PMID: 24707255.
* Jesuraj A, Singh N. Patient instructions after tooth extraction. J Family Med Prim Care. 2018 Nov;7(6):1540-1544. doi: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_252_18. PMID: 30101666.
* Hargreaves KM, Khan AA. Evidence-Based Management of Pain in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2019 Jun;77(6):1113-1123. doi: 10.1016/j.joms.2019.01.037. PMID: 31086438.
Q.
Tooth Pain? Why a Dental Crown is Vital and Your Medical Next Steps
A.
A dental crown is a protective cap that restores strength and function to a damaged tooth, often stopping pain from large cavities, cracks, severe wear, or after a root canal; delaying care can lead to infection, abscess, fractures, and tooth loss. There are several factors to consider; see below to understand more. Next steps include scheduling a dentist visit promptly, avoiding chewing on the sore side, using over the counter pain relief and good oral hygiene, and seeking urgent care for swelling, fever, pus, or trouble swallowing, with more practical details below.
References:
* Ge Y, Gao Y, Chen X, He F, Sun H, Huang Y, Ma D, Wang M, Jiang S, Gao Y. Clinical performance of ceramic crowns on vital and non-vital teeth: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Prosthodont Res. 2023 Oct;67(5):603-613. doi: 10.1016/j.jpor.2023.03.003. Epub 2023 Mar 15. PMID: 36928816.
* Dejak B, Michalski M, Kaszyńska P, Winiarczyk R. Survival of indirect restorations in vital teeth affected by fracture or crack: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Med. 2022 Mar 10;11(6):1551. doi: 10.3390/jcm11061551. PMID: 35329841; PMCID: PMC8954703.
* Patel M, Barman A, Saha C, Mandal R. Current concepts in dental crown selection and preparation. J Indian Prosthodont Soc. 2021 Jul-Sep;21(3):221-228. doi: 10.4103/jips.jips_147_21. Epub 2021 Aug 3. PMID: 34504179; PMCID: PMC8421033.
* Kim SY, Min D, Park SK. Cracked tooth syndrome: an update. Dent J (Basel). 2021 Mar 1;9(3):28. doi: 10.3390/dj9030028. PMID: 33800624; PMCID: PMC8004550.
* Estrela C, Pécora JD, Estrela CR, Fraga RC, de Souza Neto E, Murata CT, Pereira JC. Diagnosis and management of pulpal and periapical diseases: An overview. Braz Dent J. 2017 Jul-Aug;28(4):405-414. doi: 10.1590/0103-6440201701389. PMID: 28902403.
Q.
Is Your Jaw Aching? Why Your Wisdom Teeth Are Impacting and Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Jaw pain at the back of your mouth is often from impacted wisdom teeth caused by crowding, gum inflammation, or infection; removal is typically advised when there is pain, infection, damage to nearby teeth, cysts, or repeated inflammation, while symptom free, well aligned teeth may be safely monitored after a dental exam and X-rays. There are several factors to consider, including urgent red flags like rapidly spreading swelling, fever, or trouble swallowing, plus recovery timelines and when watchful waiting is reasonable, so see below for medically approved next steps and details that could affect which care path you choose.
References:
* Quek SYJ, Lee SJ, Yeo J, Song ICY, Cheong SY, Tan JJ, Nambiar P, Lye KW. Factors influencing third molar impaction in Asian populations: A systematic review. J Stomatol Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2023 Jun;124(3):101373. doi: 10.1016/j.jormas.2023.01.002. Epub 2023 Jan 21. PMID: 36693570.
* Al-Habsi N, Al-Amri A, Al-Hashami S, Al-Zakwani A. A Review of Surgical Removal of Impacted Third Molar: Indications, Contraindications, Preoperative Assessment, and Surgical Management. J Int Soc Prev Community Dent. 2023 Mar-Apr;13(2):167-175. doi: 10.4103/jispcd.jispcd_327_22. Epub 2023 Apr 17. PMID: 37303862; PMCID: PMC10255551.
* El-Sayed Y, Abo-Alsaud H, Al-Hazmi M, Al-Ansari O, Al-Awami N, Al-Dossari A, Al-Otaibi F, Al-Shammary R, Al-Abdullatif D, Al-Shouha B, Al-Dakhil B. Management of Pain and Swelling in Wisdom Tooth Surgery: A Literature Review. Cureus. 2023 Jul 21;15(7):e42250. doi: 10.7759/cureus.42250. PMID: 37614949; PMCID: PMC10444391.
* Sarwar H, Khan M, Al-Attar A, Khan AA, Alsayed H, Alsulaiman S, Al-Dawas F, Al-Shalash S, Ahmad Z. Current Indications for Extraction of Third Molars and the Potential Complications: A Systematic Review. Cureus. 2022 Nov 25;14(11):e31899. doi: 10.7759/cureus.31899. PMID: 36582490; PMCID: PMC9790408.
* Garaicoa-Pazmiño C, García-Salazar M, Barzallo-Salazar W, Barzallo-Salazar M. Impaction of Third Molars: Surgical Management and Complications. Literature Review. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2021 Jul 26;9(D):104-109. doi: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.6663. Epub 2021 Jul 21. PMID: 34326880; PMCID: PMC8313437.
Q.
Veneer Pain? Why Your Teeth Are Sensitive & Medically Approved Next Steps
A.
Veneer pain and sensitivity can be normal for days to a few weeks after placement due to enamel removal, temporary veneers, bonding irritation, or bite changes, but there are several factors to consider. See the complete guidance below for key details that can affect your next steps. Seek prompt dental care if symptoms worsen, last beyond a few weeks, or include pain on biting, swelling, fever, bad taste, or night pain; in the meantime, medically approved steps include desensitizing toothpaste, avoiding temperature extremes, a soft brush, and asking your dentist about bite adjustment, fluoride treatments, and evaluation for nerve issues or bruxism.
References:
* Meng X, Meng C, Fang P, Lu Y, Sun B, Li Y, Wang H. Post-operative sensitivity in patients undergoing porcelain veneer restoration: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Prosthet Dent. 2021 Dec;126(6):790-798.e1. PMID: 34165518.
* Al-Hussainy A, Almosa K, Alkhateeb T, Alotaibi O. Minimally invasive veneer preparations and post-operative sensitivity: a systematic review. J Prosthodont Res. 2022 Feb;66(1):164-173. PMID: 35028080.
* Gillam DG, Seo HS, Santos J. Dentin hypersensitivity: etiology, diagnosis, and management: a systematic review. Oral Health Prev Dent. 2018;16(2):107-117. PMID: 30045136.
* Cunha-Cruz J, Wataha JC, Heaton LJ, Huang G, Rothen M, Koh J, Hujoel PP. Current concepts in the diagnosis and management of dentin hypersensitivity: an evidence-based approach. J Am Dent Assoc. 2017 Nov;148(11):845-852. PMID: 29019688.
* Queiroz S, Botelho J, Silva L, Fidalgo J, Machado V. Dentin Hypersensitivity: Current Trends in Epidemiology, Etiology, Diagnosis, and Management. J Clin Med. 2023 Mar 15;12(6):2272. PMID: 36983350.
Q.
Wisdom Teeth Hurting? Why Your Jaw Aches & Proven Medical Next Steps
A.
Jaw pain from wisdom teeth most often stems from impaction, infection around a partially erupted tooth, crowding pressure, or decay and gum disease, and pain can radiate to the ear or temple; seek urgent care for fever, spreading facial swelling, trouble swallowing, or breathing problems. Proven next steps are a prompt dental exam with X-rays, short term pain relief with ibuprofen or acetaminophen, saltwater rinses and cold compresses, antibiotics only if infection is confirmed, and extraction when impaction, recurrent infection, or damage persists, though not everyone needs removal. There are several factors to consider, so see below to understand more.
References:
* Renton T, Shkolnikov Y, Shah N, Renton B. Managing wisdom teeth. BMJ. 2014 Mar 24;348:g1733. doi: 10.1136/bmj.g1733. PMID: 24662808.
* McLeod NMH, Duncan JR, Davies J. Best practice in the assessment and management of third molars. Br Dent J. 2018 Sep 28;225(6):531-537. doi: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2018.730. PMID: 30262846.
* Lodi G, Figini L, Sardella A, Carrassi A, Del Fabbro M. Antibiotics to prevent complications following third molar extraction. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2020 Aug 17;8(8):CD003811. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003811.pub3. PMID: 32804368.
* Fraser-Moodie W, Reed MJ, Renton T. The management of pericoronitis. Br Dent J. 2014 Feb;216(4):187-90. doi: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2014.108. PMID: 24556424.
* Trostianyk I, Klymenko A, Bida V, Sychak V, Dmytrichyn M, Hrytsenko I. Decision-Making for Impacted Third Molars: A Critical Review of the Literature. Dent J (Basel). 2023 Feb 15;11(2):48. doi: 10.3390/dj11020048. PMID: 36832628.
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https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2024.08.29.24312810v1References
Tooth Pain - American Association of Endodontists
https://www.aae.org/patients/dental-symptoms/tooth-pain/Kumar N, Daigavane P, Jain S, Mantri N. Review of Various Clinical Assessment Indices and Orthodontic Management for Temporomandibular Joint Disorders. Cureus. 2022 Oct 19;14(10):e30492. doi: 10.7759/cureus.30492. PMID: 36415405; PMCID: PMC9674566.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36415405/Matheson EM, Fermo JD, Blackwelder RS. Temporomandibular Disorders: Rapid Evidence Review. Am Fam Physician. 2023 Jan;107(1):52-58. PMID: 36689971.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36689971/