Fix Tooth Pain & Toothache

Throbbing tooth pain is a common sign that of a damaged tooth. Tooth decay or a cavity are often associated with a toothache. Throbbing tooth pain can also occur when there is infection in the tooth or in the surrounding gums.

Toothaches are usually caused by an infection or inflammation found in the tooth. This condition is called pulpitis. The soft, pink pulp found inside the tooth helps to keep it alive and healthy. The tooth pulp contains tissue, nerves, and blood vessels. When the tooth has a cavity or crack, air and germs are able to get inside. This can cause irritation and infection of the sensitive pulp nerves and result in tooth pain.

In addition to throbbing pain, other symptoms of a toothache can include the following:

• Constant, dull ache
• Sharp pain when biting down
• Pain when eating sweets
• Sensitive, tingly sensation in the teeth
• Pain or tenderness in the mouth
• Painful or aching jaw
• Swelling of the mouth or gum
• Redness
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Bad odor in the mouth
• Pus or white fluid
• Fever and chills

It is possible for both adults and children to get a toothache. Follow up with your dentist right away if you experience any of these signs or symptoms. The dentist will likely complete an exam and X-ray to determine the cause of the pain.

The following are common causes of throbbing tooth pain.

Tooth Decay

Tooth decay or a cavity is one of the most common reasons for pain in the teeth. This occurs when bacteria eats through the hard outside enamel of the teeth. Bacteria is part of a normal healthy mouth, however, too much sugar and other food on your teeth can result in too much bad bacteria. Bacteria forms a plaque which sticks to your teeth. Some types of bacteria form an acid that can result in holes or cavities. Tooth decay can sometimes appear as small white, brown, or black spots on the tooth.

The dentist can repair a hole in the tooth to stop the throbbing pain. The treatment may include a cleaning to remove the plaque, a filling to patch the cavity and in some cases, antibiotics for the infection.

Tooth abscess

An abscessed tooth occurs when some or all of the pulp inside the tooth is dead. This dead tissue creates a “pocket” where bacteria and pus collect. This pocket is called an abscess. An infected tooth or inflammation can cause an abscess. A damaged tooth can also lead to an abscess if it is not treated in a timely manner. This occurs when there is a hole or crack which allows bacteria into the tooth.

Treatment for a tooth abscess includes the following steps:

• Antibiotics to kill the bacteria which causes the infection
• Cleaning and draining the abscess
• If the abscess is caused by gum disease, cleaning and treating the gums
• If the abscess is caused by decay or a cracked tooth, a root canal is required
• Implant, replacing the damaged tooth with a synthetic option

Tooth fracture

A tooth fracture is a crack or break in the tooth. A fracture often occurs when biting down on something hard such as ice. Tooth fractures can also occur from a fall or trauma to the mouth. In some cases, tooth fractures develop slowly over time. A tooth fracture can result in throbbing and uncomfortable pain. The fracture allows things such as bacteria, food, water and air into the tooth. These particles can cause irritation and infection in the pulp and nerves.

Treatment

The dentist is able to repair a fractured tooth with the use of dental glue, a veneer, or a filling. In some cases, you may need a cap, crown or a root canal.

More on Fixing Problem Teeth : Fixing Broken Teeth