Hi

I take very good care of my teeth, and go to the dentist every six months, etc. But, recently have had some problems. I've noticed that one of my lower teeth gets a sharp pain when I bite on it, usually with something like popcorn or carrot sticks, etc. I cannot figure out exactly which tooth it is, but wondered what would do that? It is really making me upset, as I am paranoid about my teeth. I appreciate any ideas or suggestions. My dentist is on vacation.

Cat

Sharp pain on biting is often due to a cracked tooth. Get to a dentist soon - before the crack propagates more. He should be able to check with cusp is involved.
Sharp pain to biting could also be due to a gap in a recently placed white filling, in particular.
Either way, you should really get to a dentist soon.

Until you get a chance to see your dentist, try rinsing out your mouth with warm salt water. Also brush around the area real well, but not so much as to irritate the gums.

I've cleaned around a tooth that hurt a little like that, and the pain went away - and no further problems at all. See if that helps....

Thank you for both replies!

zahnschmerzen: How would a crack in my tooth happen? I have not had any fillings in any of those teeth, and I'm only 24. Is there something that can cause it that I should be aware of? Thanks!! http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif I am hoping that is not the case.

rhody: Thank you http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/smile.gif I will give that a try. I also was thinking maybe I got a popcorn kernal stuck somewhere in or around the gum, which also would hurt! I'm hoping it will go away. Thanks!!

Cat