One of the most important things our body can do is tell us when something’s wrong with it, and it tells us through pain. Toothaches are no exception, albeit they’re usually much more irksome compared to the other warnings our bodies give us.
The worst toothache can render you immobile from pain, holding on to your head like it’s going to explode. Then there are toothaches that feel dull and subdued. Another kind of toothache is called throbbing tooth pain — an intermittent pain that comes and goes seemingly like it’s timed to the beat of a song. Indeed, it’s rhythmic enough that Aristotle thought it was linked to our heartbeats.
Regardless, it’s not only painful — it’s a mischievous kind of painful, giving you a moment’s respite before pounding on your head again.
So What Causes the Throbbing?
The main culprit behind throbbing tooth pain is usually inflammation. It’s often associated with inflammation within the tooth itself (the pulp) or in its surrounding areas, which is usually caused by:
- Gum infections
- Pulp infections
- Sinus infections
- Broken fillings or crowns
- Chipped or cracked teeth
Your dentist will have to figure it out for you before treatment can be administered.
So How Do You Relieve Throbbing Tooth Pain?
Interestingly enough, since throbbing tooth pain comes and goes, you can distract yourself sufficiently well from the pain. This is why it’s less painful during the day when you have a lot of other activities taking your attention away from the pain. Usually though, during the night, it’s a different, more painful story.
Of course, “do more stuff” isn’t the ideal prescription.
You can try some home remedies to deal with the pain, such as rinsing your mouth out with salt water or using ice compresses or even placing ice cubes directly on the affected area in your mouth. There’s always over-the-counter pain medication as well.
When it’s nighttime and your mind focuses more and more on the throbbing pain, you’ll also notice that the pain intensifies when you lie down. Some things you can try include:
- Elevating your head with pillows. Two to three pillows can help reduce the blood flow to the area where the throbbing pain is coming from.
- Floss. Food particles may be putting pressure on the area, causing the pain to come and go. After flossing, rinse with warm salt water.
- Press a warm tea bag against the area where the pain is coming from. It reduces the pain and replaces it with a comfortable sensation.
You can definitely try all that, but it’s still best to get your dentist on the case. Dr. MGS Prasad and his staff would be glad to help get rid of your throbbing tooth pain if you’re looking for a dentist in K.R Puram, Bangalore. Get in touch today!