Why Do My Teeth Hurt? How to Make Your Tooth Pain Go Away
Throbbing tooth and gum pain can be a distressing and uncomfortable experience. However, it is not uncommon. Various factors can contribute to this type of pain, ranging from dental issues to underlying health conditions. Understanding the causes and seeking appropriate dental treatments is crucial for finding relief and restoring oral health. This article will delve into the common causes of throbbing tooth and gum pain and explore the dental treatments available to address these issues effectively.
What Can Cause a Toothache or Sensitive Gums
Tooth Decay
One of the main causes of throbbing tooth pain is tooth decay. When bacteria accumulate on the tooth surface and form plaque, it can lead to the breakdown of the tooth’s enamel. Over time, this can result in cavities that expose the sensitive inner layers of the tooth, leading to pain and throbbing sensations.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the tissues surrounding the teeth. It typically starts with the inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and, if left untreated, progresses to periodontitis. The infection causes the gums to recede, exposing the tooth roots and leading to throbbing gum pain.
Tooth Fracture
Soreness and discomfort can also be brought on by a cracked or broken tooth. A damaged tooth’s structure can expose the inner nerves and tissues, creating extreme sensitivity and irritation. Trauma, teeth grinding (bruxism), or weakened teeth from decay or prior dental work can all result in fractures.
Dental Abscess
When a bacterial infection spreads to the tooth’s root or the tissues around it, an abscessed tooth results. This infection can result in excruciating pain that is frequently accompanied by soreness and swelling. Dental abscesses must be treated right away to stop the infection from getting worse.
Impacted Tooth
Teeth can become impacted when something stops them from moving into their proper position in the mouth. When something prevents teeth from shifting into their ideal position in the mouth, they might become impacted.
Wisdom teeth more commonly become impacted because they are typically the last ones to emerge and may not fit in your mouth. Infected impacted wisdom teeth can result in severe discomfort, fever, inflamed gums, and difficulty swallowing.
How Do I Stop My Tooth From Hurting?
Dental Fillings
For tooth decay and cavities, dental fillings are a common treatment. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the resulting cavity is filled with a suitable material, such as composite resin or amalgam. This helps alleviate the pain and prevents further damage.
Gum Disease Treatment
Gum disease requires different treatments depending on how severe it is. In the early stages (gingivitis), thorough dental cleanings and improved oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, may be sufficient. Advanced gum disease (periodontitis) may require scaling and root planing, gum surgery, or antibiotic therapy to control the infection and restore gum health.
Root Canal Therapy
When tooth decay or an infection reaches the tooth’s pulp, root canal therapy may be necessary. This procedure involves removing the infected tissue, cleaning the root canals, and sealing them with a filling material. Root canal therapy eliminates the throbbing pain and saves the tooth from extraction.
Tooth Extraction
An extraction could be required when a tooth is seriously decayed, infected, or impacted. The cause of the excruciating pain is eliminated during extraction, which also prevents further issues. After extraction, options like dental implants, bridges, or dentures can be considered for tooth replacement.
Dental Crowns
A serious cavity or fracture may call for a dental crown. With a dental crown, your tooth is strengthened and less likely to sustain further damage thanks to its teeth-shaped “cap” that covers the entire tooth.
Inlays or Onlays
On certain occasions, there may be a cavity or crack that exceeds the capacity of a dental filling but does not require a full crown. In such situations, your dentist might suggest the use of an inlay or onlay. These customized ceramic restorations are designed to fit into your tooth like a small puzzle piece.
How CDG Can Help You
Keeping a healthy smile is essential all year round, not just during the summer. We know that with all of the exciting summer activities, a camera is always nearby. You want to ensure your smile is the best it can be – and we are here to help! A Cosmetic Dentistry Grant is for anyone who wishes to enhance their oral health and restore confidence in their smile, but you must first meet eligibility requirements. Apply now with CDG to see if you’re eligible!