Trouble Eating Difficulty Chewing

There are several reasons why patients may have difficulty chewing but it is often be due to changes in the bone, muscle, and tissue structures of the face and jaw. The source of the problem can be behavioral or medical and the issue often has other related symptoms that can help identify the cause. Regardless of the cause, any difficulties chewing or swallowing should be promptly addressed by a medical professional

Causes of Chewing Pain or Difficulty

  • Trauma to the facial or jaw bones
  • Rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
  • Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism - subconscious; often occurring while asleep)
  • Issues with the temporomandibular joint (TMJ)
  • Temporomandibular disease (TMD)
  • Misalignment of the bite
  • Dry mouth
  • Gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis)
  • Tooth decay
  • Tooth loss
  • Infection
  • Abscesses
  • Oral cancer

Related Symptoms – Useful for Identifying the Problem

Should other symptoms develop along with chewing difficulties, these symptoms can help the dentist or doctor identify its cause. An unpleasant taste in the mouth, for example, commonly indicates the development of a dental condition. Headaches, earaches, and tenderness in the facial or jaw structures are common with bruxism and TMJ disorders. Chewing difficulty can lead to poor nutrition and unexpected or rapid weight loss but could also signify more severe pathological problems. In the most extreme cases, chewing difficulties could develop into swallowing issues as well.

What to Do if Experiencing Pain When Chewing

Anybody experiencing difficulty or discomfort when chewing, particularly if accompanied by trouble swallowing, should seek medical treatment as quickly as possible. In all likelihood, the cause of the difficulty is not serious but evaluation by a doctor will be needed to rule out any serious underlying conditions. The doctor may evaluate the gastrointestinal system to identify any neuromuscular disorders and order X-rays or radioactive dye to trace the problem’s source. A dental evaluation will also be needed to identify any oral infections or tooth damage that could be contributing to the chewing issues.

Possible Treatment Options

Treatment will vary based on the underlying cause of the chewing difficulty. Some common treatment options include:

  • Dental Implants: If chewing difficulties are related to a lost or missing tooth, a dental implant may be an attractive restorative treatment. A surgical procedure that involves imbedding metal posts into the gums on which a replacement crown is screwed into place, dental implants are the most effective and natural option for replacing a lost tooth. However, since surgery is involved, the treatment is more expensive than other options and requires significant recovery/healing time.
  • Fillings: In cases where a damaged tooth is contributing to chewing trouble, fillings can be used to repair the affected area of the tooth. Made of porcelain or metals, fillings are easy to place and generally well tolerated.
  • Root Canal and/or Antibiotics: An infected tooth can be very painful and make chewing difficult. Should infection develop within the inner layer of a tooth (pulp), a root canal procedure could be needed to remove the infected pulp tissue before an antibiotic is issued. After treating with antibiotics, the infected tooth is covered with a crown to protect the area and restore functionality.

More on Oral Health : Pain or Swelling in Mouth