Fix Tooth Pain & Toothache
Toothache
If you are experiencing a throbbing pain in your tooth or teeth this could be a sign of tooth damage. This kind of pain can also be an indication of infection in a tooth or the gums around it. Toothaches are generally a sign of infection and/or inflammation. Cavities, cracks, and tooth decay are all known to cause toothaches. In addition to throbbing pain, other common symptoms associated with toothache include sharp pain when you’re biting down, pain when you’re eating something sweet, a sensitive or tingling feeling in the teeth, constant dull ache, general pain and tenderness in the mouth or jaw, swelling of the gums, redness, foul odor in the mouth, pus or white fluid in the mouth, and fever. Toothaches are common for both children and adults. It’s important to seek dental attention immediately if you are having any signs or symptoms of a toothache. Often times a full dental exam, including a dental X-ray will be needed to accurately determine the likely cause.
Some possible causes of throbbing toothache can include:
- Tooth Decay: Cavity or tooth decay is one of the most common causes of toothache. When bacteria are able to penetrate the tough outer layer of the tooth’s enamel it can cause pain. While bacteria are considered a normal part of a healthy body and mouth, too much of bad bacterias (often caused by too much sugar) can increase plaque and give off certain acids that can deteriorate your teeth and gums. Treatment for throbbing pain associated with tooth decay will often include a full cleaning to remove plaque, a filling to treat any holes or cavities, and sometimes an antibiotic if any infection has taken hold.
- Tooth abscess: When some or all of a tooth’s pulp dies it creates an abscessed tooth. The decayed tissues make a kind of pocket of pus and bacteria which is what is known as an abscess. Infection and/or inflammation are known causes of abscesses. And a tooth that is damaged can quickly become an abscessed tooth if not treated. Treatment for throbbing pain associated with a tooth abscess is likely to include antibiotics for treating infection, a full cleaning including draining of the abscess, and a full cleaning of the gums. Sometimes an implant or root canal can be needed if an abscess has been caused by a cracked or decayed tooth.
- Tooth fracture: Cracks or splits in the teeth can lead to throbbing pain. A crack or fracture in the tooth can allow things such as bacteria, water, air and/or food particles to irritate (or infect in some cases) the nerves and/or pulp which can trigger pain. Treatment for pain with tooth fracture will likely include remain using a dental glue, a filling, or a veneer. Sometimes a cap, crown or root canal will be recommended.
- Damaged Filling: Fillings can be damaged with normal chewing and biting activities, clenching or guiding the teeth, as well as from biting something that is hard. Sometimes filling can chip, crack, crumble, pop out, or wear away and this can cause pain. Treatment includes repairing or replacing the filling.
- Infection of the Gums: Infection of the gums, also known as gingivitis, can lead to gum disease and can cause tooth pain and sensitivity. Treatment usually includes antibiotics, cleaning, and medicated mouth wash.
Other Causes of Tooth Pain and When to Visit The Dentist
Clenching and grinding the teeth, loose crowns, tooth eruption, having food or debris stuck between teeth, and having an abnormal bite can all be other causes of tooth pain. Sinus infections and heart disease can also cause pain in teeth and jaw. Since a tooth infection can spread into the jawbone and into other areas of the head, throat, and face it is important to contact your dentist if you have other symptoms accompanying your toothache. Pain when biting or chewing, fever, pain that lasts more than a few hours, swelling are all symptoms to alert you that your situation needs attention. If a tooth has broken or fallen out a dentist should be contacted immediately, or you should head to the emergency room. Contact your dentist and/or doctor immediately if you are experiencing any throbbing tooth pain.