My Tooth in the Back Hurts

Close-up of a person pointing to their back molar

When your back tooth hurts, it's usually due to decay, infection, or grinding. These molars handle most chewing, making them vulnerable to wear and damage.

Why Back Teeth Hurt More Often

Back teeth (molars) have multiple roots and large surfaces for grinding food. Their location makes them harder to clean, leading to plaque buildup and cavities. A study in the Journal of Dental Research found that molars are twice as likely to develop cavities as front teeth.

Common Causes of Back Tooth Pain

Most back tooth pain comes from:

Cavities: Decay exposes nerves, causing sharp pain when biting or drinking something cold/hot.
Infections: Bacteria can infect the pulp, leading to throbbing pain that worsens at night.
Grinding (bruxism): Clenching or grinding wears down enamel, increasing sensitivity.
Abscesses: Pockets of pus form near the tooth root, causing swelling and constant pain.

When to See a Dentist

Visit a dentist if pain lasts more than two days, or if you notice swelling, fever, or bad taste. Ignoring severe pain can lead to lost teeth or systemic infections. The American Dental Association recommends checking for pain that disrupts sleep or eating.

I once ignored back tooth pain for a week-it turned out to be an abscess requiring a root canal. Don't wait that long.

Temporary Relief Options

Until you see a dentist, try:

Rinsing with warm salt water to reduce inflammation.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen.
Avoiding extremely hot or cold foods/drinks.

Misconceptions About Back Tooth Pain

If pain persists after treating cavities, ask your dentist about other possible causes.