Throbbing tooth pain is a highly uncomfortable ache that can seriously impact your daily life. It can occur due to various reasons. Some easy home remedies may help relieve this pain. However, if the pain is severe or persists for a long time, it’s important to see a dentist without delay.
So, how long does throbbing tooth pain last, and what helps relieve it?
What Causes Throbbing Tooth Pain?
There can be many reasons behind throbbing tooth pain that disrupts daily life. The most common cause is oral health problems resulting from poor dental hygiene. Neglecting oral and gum care opens the door to many issues — and throbbing pain is one of them.
Keep in mind that lack of proper dental care creates the perfect conditions for tooth decay. Cavities form when the enamel is damaged. As the enamel deteriorates, decay progresses into the inner layers of the tooth and reaches the nerves, leading to throbbing pain.
Another cause of this pain may be gum infection. Inflammation and infection in the gums can make teeth more sensitive. This sensitivity is one of the reasons behind gum-related throbbing pain.
Harmful habits also play a role in this type of pain — like teeth grinding or clenching (known as bruxism). These habits often stem from stress, anxiety, or tension. If the person grinds their teeth while sleeping, identifying the cause of the pain can be more difficult.
Bruxism creates excessive pressure between the teeth, damaging both the teeth and jaw muscles. Over time, this habit can seriously harm the teeth and jaw, making it another potential cause of pain.
A dental abscess, which is an inflammatory infection around the tooth or tooth root, is also a possible reason. Abscesses occur when bacteria enter a decayed or damaged area of the tooth. As pus accumulates, pressure builds up and causes throbbing pain.
To determine the exact cause of the pain, it’s essential to consult a dentist. Your dentist will perform the necessary examination to identify the issue and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs — providing effective pain relief.
What Does Throbbing Tooth Pain Indicate?
Throbbing pain in a tooth can signal a variety of dental problems, such as:
- Tooth Sensitivity: Poor eating habits may lead to increased tooth sensitivity. For example, consuming very hot, cold, or sweet food and drinks can trigger this. Sensitivity often leads to pain.
- Tooth Decay: Bacteria in the mouth can weaken tooth enamel and cause cavities. Throbbing pain may be a symptom of tooth decay.
- Gum Problems: This type of pain may also indicate issues like gum inflammation (gingivitis) or gum recession. When tooth roots are exposed, it can lead to discomfort.
- Dental Abscess or Infection: Throbbing pain may stem from infections or abscesses caused by inflammation or untreated decay.
- Trauma: A hard blow to the teeth, such as from an accident, can cause pain. Even if there's no visible damage, pain may indicate internal trauma.
- Teeth Grinding and Clenching: It can be hard to detect this habit during sleep. However, if no other oral issue is present, the pain may point to grinding or clenching.
- Tooth Wear: Throbbing pain may also be a symptom of worn-down teeth. Over time, this damage can lead to fractures.
How Long Does Throbbing Tooth Pain Last?
The duration of throbbing tooth pain depends on its underlying cause. At first, the pain might come and go or be mild. But as the issue worsens, the pain may intensify. Once the root cause is treated, the pain will subside. This may take a few days or even a few weeks, depending on the treatment.
How to Relieve Throbbing Tooth Pain?
If you're wondering what helps with throbbing tooth pain, try these tips:
Apply a cold compress.
- Take pain relievers.
- Gargle with salt water.
- Maintain good oral hygiene.
- Use dentist-recommended gum gels or creams.
- Address habits like teeth grinding during sleep.
- Rinse with baking soda water.
- Avoid putting pressure on the affected area.
However, it's important to remember that throbbing pain can sometimes have serious causes. Rather than relying solely on home remedies, we recommend visiting our clinics as soon as possible. Our expert dentists will examine you and identify the root cause of your pain. Then, they’ll develop a personalised treatment plan just for you.
Choose Dentakay to say goodbye to your oral and dental health problems!
