When it comes to tooth pain, the type and intensity can vary widely. You might notice a dull, lingering ache that comes and goes or a sharp, sudden jolt of pain when you bite down. Sometimes, it’s a wave of sensitivity triggered by something hot, cold, or sweet. And in more severe cases, a deep, throbbing pain may signal underlying issues such as tooth decay, nerve damage, or an infection in the tooth or surrounding gums.
In today’s blog post, let’s explore six possible causes and treatment options for a throbbing tooth.
1. Tooth decay or a cavity
This is the most common reason for tooth pain and occurs when bacteria “eats” through the tooth enamel (outer layer). Bacteria creates plaque, which sticks to your teeth and releases an acid that causes holes or cavities. Decay may appear like small white, brown, or black spots. Fortunately, a quick trip to the dentist can help stop the throbbing pain! You may need a teeth cleaning to remove the plaque, a filling for the cavity, and/or antibiotics to address any infections.
2. Tooth fracture
If you fall, get hit in the mouth, or bite into something hard, you may end up with a tooth fracture, which often leads to throbbing pain. The crack in the tooth allows bacteria, food particles, water, and/or air to get inside the tooth, which may irritate or infect the pulp and nerves.
To repair a tooth fracture, your dentist may use a filling, dental glue, or porcelain veneers. If needed, you may need a cap or crown on your tooth or a root canal.
3. Abscessed tooth
If your tooth is damaged, you may end up with a hole or crack that lets bacteria in. If this crack causes part or all of the pulp inside your tooth to die, you have an abscessed tooth. This dead tissue creates a “pocket” of pus and bacteria, which lead to inflammation and/or infection.
Treatment depends on the cause of the abscess and may require:
- draining or cleaning out the abscess
- antibiotics, if the bacteria causes an infection
- a root canal, if the abscess is from tooth decay or a cracked tooth
- cleaning and caring for the gums, if the abscess is related to gum disease
- a dental implant, if a tooth replacement is needed
4. A damaged filing
Unfortunately, normal biting and chewing may damage a filling, causing it to chip, crumble, crack, or even pop out. Over time, it may also weaken from natural wear and tear. Luckily, it’s an easy fix, with your dentist simply replacing or repairing the damaged filing.
5. Gum infection
A gum infection can be caused by improper at-home dental care, a poor diet, medications, health conditions, genetics, hormonal changes, and smoking. Also known as gingivitis, it can advance to gum disease, which is the primary cause of tooth loss in adults. When bacteria builds up around the roots, it often leads to an infection in the gum tissue, which causes a toothache.
Treatment is usually multi-step, requiring antibiotics, regular professional cleanings, and/or a medicated mouthwash to soothe tooth pain and sore gums. If the infection causes gum disease, you may need a “deep cleaning” called scaling and root planing or even dental surgery.
6. Bruxism
Many people grind or clench their teeth during sleep, often due to stress, genetics, or over-developed jaw muscles. This habit can cause tooth, gum, and jaw pain. It increases your risk of tooth erosion, tooth fractures, and cavities.
The first line of treatment is to identify the reason for grinding. Wearing a mouth guard helps to stop many patients from clenching their teeth during the night. Additionally, it can be beneficial to practice stress relief techniques or look into mental health treatments.
We hope you’ll choose Maitland Ave Smile Co. for your family’s dental needs!
Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like your family’s dental routine, dental anxiety, and more.