Why does it feel like my teeth are throbbing

The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels inside the tooth. When decay, a crack, trauma, or leakage allows irritation to reach the pulp, inflammation can produce rhythmic pain, temperature sensitivity, or pain that worsens when lying down.

Rinse gently, keep the area clean, avoid very hot or cold foods, and chew on the opposite side. Do not put heat, alcohol, or aspirin directly on the gum; arrange an examination so the cause can be tested with tapping, temperature, bite tests, and imaging when needed.

Seek urgent care for facial swelling, fever, a bad taste with drainage, severe pain, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or swelling near the eye. Persistent throbbing without swelling still warrants prompt dental assessment.

Ask whether the pulp is inflamed or infected, whether the tooth is cracked, what the X-ray shows, whether root canal treatment or another option is appropriate, and how to manage pain while waiting.