Have you ever experienced sudden throbbing tooth pain that comes and goes? It’s not uncommon to have dental pain occasionally, but if you’re experiencing this type of pain, it could indicate a dental emergency. Throbbing tooth pain is uncomfortable and could be a sign of a more serious problem. In this blog post, we will discuss what could be causing your throbbing tooth pain that comes and goes and what you can do to alleviate the pain.
Causes of Throbbing Tooth Pain
Tooth Decay
One of the leading causes of throbbing tooth pain is tooth decay. Tooth decay is caused by a bacterial infection that erodes tooth enamel, causing a cavity in your tooth. If left unaddressed, tooth decay can cause dental pain that comes and goes, especially when consuming hot or cold foods. To deal with tooth decay, your dentist may have to perform a dental filling or root canal treatment.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is another common cause of throbbing tooth pain. Gum disease can cause inflammation in the gums, leading to receding gums and, eventually, loose teeth. Swollen gums often cause throbbing pain, usually felt around many teeth in the mouth. Gum disease can be caused by poor oral hygiene, smoking, or conditions that weaken the immune system. Treatment for gum disease depends on its severity and may require scaling and root planing or even surgery.
Tooth Abscess
When a tooth infection progresses into the root canal, it could cause a tooth abscess. A tooth abscess, in which pus forms around the tooth nerve, can cause intense and persistent pain that could worsen when lying down.
Abscesses can be caused by dental injuries, untreated cavities, or damage to your teeth caused by teeth grinding. If left untreated, a tooth abscess could be life-threatening and requires immediate dental treatment, which usually involves draining the pus and treatment with antibiotics.
Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth can also cause throbbing tooth pain when they emerge or grow in ways that cause discomfort. Wisdom teeth can grow at an angle, causing pressure on other teeth and the gums. The tension and pressure on the surrounding areas could cause the throbbing pain. In most cases, extraction becomes necessary when wisdom teeth cause pain.
Treatment Options
Over-The-Counter Pain Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin can help to alleviate tooth pain by reducing inflammation and blocking nerve pain signals. These are typically the first type of pain relief we recommend and are an effective treatment option for sudden tooth pain caused by sensitivity to hot and cold foods, teeth grinding, or minor dental injuries.
Dental Procedures
Dental procedures like root canal treatment, dental fillings, and extractions are usually required when the cause of the pain is more serious. Root canal treatment helps to save a badly damaged tooth by removing the infected tooth nerve and replacing it with a filling. In contrast, dental fillings and extractions can treat tooth decay or damage to your teeth.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are a medication that can help treat bacterial infections that cause tooth pain. Typically, they are prescribed when the tooth’s nerve is infected or when (depending on the location and severity of the infection) the tooth needs extraction. Your dentist will determine the right type of antibiotics and the duration of your course.
Preventing Throbbing Tooth Pain
Practise Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. This helps remove food particles, plaque, and tartar that can cause tooth decay and gum disease. Remember to floss your teeth daily to clean between them. If you have sensitive teeth, consider using an electric toothbrush as it’s gentler on your enamel. Also, rinse your mouth with water or an antiseptic mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath.
Avoid Sugary Foods and Drinks
Sugar is a leading cause of dental decay and bacterial infections that lead to throbbing tooth pain. Limit sugary foods and drinks, including candy, soda, and sports drinks. Instead, choose nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, and nuts that help strengthen your teeth and gums. Additionally, drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth hydrated and reduce the acidity levels in your mouth.
Visit the Dentist Regularly
Regular dental check-ups help detect and treat dental problems before they become severe.
During the dental exam, your dentist will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth for signs of decay, infections, or other oral health problems. They may also recommend dental treatments, such as dental fillings, root canal treatment, or tooth extraction, if necessary.
Follow your dentist’s advice on how often you should visit for a check-up, as it varies depending on your oral health needs.
Address Dental Emergencies Promptly
If you experience sudden tooth pain or a dental injury, seek emergency dental care immediately. Delaying treatment can worsen the condition, increase the risk of infection, or lead to tooth loss. For instance, if you have a chipped or cracked tooth, rinse your mouth with warm water and apply a cold compress to ease the pain and swelling. If you’re bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the affected area with gauze until you see a dentist.
Manage Teeth Grinding
Grinding your teeth can cause wear and tear on your teeth, leading to a cracked tooth or damage to your teeth’s nerves. Consider wearing a mouthguard or splint to protect your teeth from further damage, especially at night. Also, managing stress, incorporating relaxation techniques, and seeking treatment for underlying medical conditions can reduce teeth grinding.
Conclusion
In conclusion, preventing throbbing tooth pain requires a proactive approach to oral health, including good oral hygiene, a healthy diet, and regular dental check-ups. Additionally, addressing dental emergencies promptly and managing teeth grinding can help protect your teeth and prevent further complications. Remember, oral health is essential to your overall well-being, so take care of your teeth and gums to enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime. Contact our professional team at Dapto Dentists today on (02) 4062 8753 if you suffer from throbbing tooth pain.
References
Dental Pain
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/258314161_Dental_pain
Dealing with Tooth Pain
https://jada.ada.org/article/S0002-8177(19)30489-1/fulltext
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