Chewing on Only One Side? It’s Often a Sign of an Underlying Dental Issue
The New Patient Guide for Finding a Dentist in Coral Gables
If you’ve noticed that you chew mostly on one side of your mouth, it’s usually not a matter of habit or preference. In many cases, this behavior is your body’s way of avoiding pain or discomfort caused by an underlying dental or jaw issue.
At Nuvo Dental Arts, we often see patients who have adapted to chewing on one side without realizing it can lead to more serious problems over time.
What Causes One-Sided Chewing?
Chewing on only one side is commonly linked to:
A fractured or cracked tooth
A tooth infection or infected molar
Pain when biting or chewing
TMJ (temporomandibular joint) issues
Jaw tension or inflammation
When chewing causes pain on one side, your mouth naturally compensates by shifting all the work to the other side — which can create new problems if left unaddressed.
Why Ignoring It Can Lead to Bigger Problems
Continuing to chew on only one side can result in:
Excessive tooth wear on the unaffected side
Bite imbalance and uneven pressure
Increased strain on the jaw joint
Progression of TMJ pain and joint breakdown
Higher risk of additional tooth fractures
What begins as discomfort can slowly impact your teeth, bite, and jaw function.
Restoring Comfortable, Balanced Chewing
Chewing comfortably on both sides of your mouth is an important part of long-term oral health. Identifying the cause early allows for treatment that protects your teeth and reduces stress on your jaw joints.
At Nuvo Dental Arts, we evaluate both dental and jaw-related factors to determine why you may be experiencing pain and limited chewing. From fractured teeth to TMJ concerns, our goal is to restore balance, comfort, and function.
Get Back to Pain-Free Chewing
If chewing comfortably again is your goal, professional evaluation is the first step. Addressing the root cause can help prevent further damage and relieve ongoing discomfort.
📍 Nuvo Dental Arts
Serving Coral Gables and Coconut Grove
📞 Book a checkup today and take the first step toward pain-free chewing.
