You bite down on a sandwich, take a sip of something cold—or even brush your teeth—and suddenly your tooth screams in pain. If you’ve been thinking, “My tooth hurts when I put pressure on it,” then something deeper is going on.
And let’s face it—you’re not just worried about the pain, you’re worried about the cost of fixing it.
Whether you have insurance or not, this kind of dental pain can’t wait. And the good news? You don’t have to choose between your smile and your savings. There’s a simple, affordable way to get help today using in-office membership plans, even if you’re uninsured.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- What’s causing your tooth pain
- Why it hurts when you bite or apply pressure
- How to get fast, effective treatment without paying a fortune
- Real stories from patients who got help using The Patient Marketplace
Let’s get your smile—and your peace of mind—back.
Why My Tooth Hurts When I Put Pressure on It
Pain when biting or chewing isn’t normal. It’s your body’s way of saying: “Hey! Something’s wrong.”
Here are the most common causes:
1. Cracked Tooth
A crack in your tooth—often invisible to the eye—can cause sharp pain when pressure is applied. It’s often mistaken for sensitivity or sinus pressure, but cracks can quickly lead to infections or complete tooth loss if ignored.
2. Dental Abscess or Infection
A buildup of bacteria under the tooth or in the gum can cause throbbing pain when you bite. This may also come with swelling, fever, or a bad taste in your mouth. This is a dental emergency.
3. Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
If the gum and bone around your tooth are infected, even light pressure can feel like stabbing pain. This can happen even if your teeth look fine.
4. Tooth Decay Near the Nerve
When a cavity grows close to the pulp of your tooth, it becomes sensitive to touch, pressure, and temperature. Without treatment, it may need a root canal.
5. Recent Dental Work or High Filling
If you’ve had a recent filling, crown, or cleaning, a high bite can trigger pressure pain. It’s usually a quick fix—but don’t ignore it.
Temporary Relief for Tooth Pain
While you wait for a dentist appointment, try:
- Rinsing with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation
- Taking OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen (if safe for you)
- Avoiding chewing on the painful side
- Applying a cold compress to your jaw
⚠️ Warning: These are temporary. If pain lasts more than 48 hours, see a dentist immediately.
Now, Let’s Talk Cost (The Pain You Weren’t Expecting)
Worried about the bill? You’re not alone.
Here’s what typical care costs without insurance:
| Procedure | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Exam & X-rays | $100–$300 |
| Filling | $150–$400 |
| Root Canal | $900–$1,600 |
| Crown | $1,200–$2,000 |
| Tooth Extraction | $200–$600 |
And when you’re dealing with pressure pain, waiting isn’t an option—but paying thousands out of pocket isn’t either.
Affordable Dental Care: The Power of Membership Plans
There’s a better way.
In-office dental membership plans are subscription-based programs offered directly by dentists. They’re perfect for people with no insurance—or those who are tired of confusing claims and high deductibles.
What You Get:
- Free exams and cleanings (usually 1–2 per year)
- X-rays included
- Discounts of 20%–60% on all other procedures
- Flat monthly fee—usually $25–$40/month
- No waiting periods, no approval, no insurance games
How Maria Saved $1,300 on Her Root Canal
Maria, 38, noticed a sharp pain every time she chewed on her left side. She feared the worst—maybe a root canal or crown. With no dental insurance and two kids in daycare, she put it off… until the pain became unbearable.
She found a local provider through The Patient Marketplace and signed up for a $32/month membership plan that offered:
- Free emergency exam
- 25% off root canal treatment
- 20% off the crown
Total cost with the plan: $820
Without it? Over $2,100
“I could finally breathe—and chew—again. The membership plan saved my smile and my budget.” — Maria, verified Patient Marketplace user
What Is The Patient Marketplace?
The Patient Marketplace is an online platform where you can:
- Find dentists near you offering affordable membership plans
- Compare plan features, discounts, and monthly fees
- Book directly—no insurance required
- Get real care, fast
It’s trusted by thousands of patients looking for honest, affordable dental care without red tape.
When Should I See a Dentist? (Don’t Wait Too Long)
If your tooth hurts when you put pressure on it, don’t delay if you notice:
- Pain that’s worsening
- Swelling in the gums or face
- Fever or signs of infection
- Broken, cracked, or sensitive teeth
- Trouble eating, drinking, or sleeping
Dental issues rarely get better on their own. The sooner you get care, the more you can save—both in cost and pain.
FAQs
Why does my tooth only hurt when I put pressure on it?
It may be a crack, infection, or cavity near the nerve. Only a dental exam can determine the cause.
Can I wait it out or treat it at home?
You can manage symptoms temporarily, but delaying treatment often leads to more serious (and expensive) issues.
What if I don’t have dental insurance?
In-office membership plans are an affordable alternative, offering routine care and treatment discounts without insurance.
Are membership plans available near me?
Yes. ThePatientMarketplace.com lists local providers offering budget-friendly plans.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Many offices offer next-day or same-week bookings—especially for urgent cases.
Final Thoughts: Pressure Pain Is a Warning Sign—Don’t Ignore It
Tooth pain when biting isn’t just annoying—it’s a red flag. And if you’re thinking, “My tooth hurts when I put pressure on it,” the worst thing you can do is wait.
Thanks to affordable dental membership plans through The Patient Marketplace, help is not only possible—it’s within reach.
Need care now—without insurance headaches or high costs?
Visit ThePatientMarketplace.com and find a dentist with a plan that fits your needs and your budget.
You deserve pain-free chewing, peace of mind—and a solution that won’t break the bank.
Suggested Internal Links:
- How to Know If You Need a Root Canal
- What to Do About Tooth Sensitivity
- Affordable Dental Care Without Insurance
