A toothache can be more than just a passing discomfort. While most people assume it’s a cavity or infection, sometimes the pain is caused by something unexpected—a sprained tooth ligament. If you’ve been dealing with a lingering toothache that doesn’t seem to improve, it may not be your tooth itself, but rather the ligament surrounding it. Understanding what a sprained ligament is, why it happens, and how it’s treated can help you find relief and protect your oral health.
At Kind Family Dentistry in Scottsdale, AZ, our team is here to provide answers and care when tooth pain won’t go away.
What Exactly Is a Sprained Tooth Ligament?
Every tooth is held in place by a periodontal ligament, a tiny but strong set of fibers that attaches your tooth to the surrounding bone. When this ligament becomes overstretched or injured, it’s known as a “tooth sprain” or sprained tooth ligament.
A sprained ligament can feel like:
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A dull, constant ache
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Pain when biting down or chewing
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Tenderness around the tooth without visible damage
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Sensitivity that lingers even after pressure is removed
Unlike cavities or gum infections, there may not be obvious signs, making it tricky to pinpoint the cause without a proper dental exam.
What Causes a Tooth Ligament Sprain?
Tooth ligaments are sensitive and can be injured by various triggers. Some of the most common causes include:
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Teeth grinding or clenching (bruxism): Excess pressure can strain the ligament over time.
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Biting into hard foods: Accidentally chewing ice, hard candy, or unpopped popcorn kernels can overstretch the ligament.
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Dental trauma: A sports injury, fall, or impact to the face can cause strain.
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Misaligned bite: Uneven pressure from a bad bite can irritate certain teeth and ligaments.
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Recent dental work: Adjustments such as fillings or crowns may cause temporary pressure until your bite adjusts.
If you notice discomfort following one of these scenarios, a sprained ligament may be the culprit.
How to Tell If It’s a Sprain and Not Something Else
Because a sprained ligament can mimic other dental issues, it’s essential to know how it differs:
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Tooth Decay: Usually comes with visible holes, sensitivity to sweets, or sharp pain.
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Gum Disease: Involves swollen or bleeding gums, not just isolated tooth pain.
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Abscessed Tooth: Pain is severe, often with swelling and sometimes fever.
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Tooth Ligament Sprain: Pain is more related to chewing pressure and doesn’t involve infection.
If your toothache persists for more than a couple of days, don’t ignore it. Scheduling a dental appointment ensures the correct diagnosis and treatment plan.
Treatment Options for a Sprained Tooth Ligament
The good news is that sprained tooth ligaments often heal with proper care. Treatment may involve:
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Resting the tooth: Avoid biting into hard or crunchy foods.
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Nightguards: Custom-made devices protect teeth from grinding and clenching.
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Bite adjustment: A dentist can carefully reshape a filling or crown that causes uneven pressure.
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Over-the-counter pain relief: Anti-inflammatory medications can ease discomfort while healing occurs.
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Ice packs: Applying a cold compress to the cheek reduces swelling and soreness.
In most cases, ligaments heal within a few weeks with proper care. However, if the pain doesn’t improve, our dentist in Scottsdale may explore additional treatments to rule out hidden issues.
Healing Process: How Long Does It Take?
One of the most common questions patients ask is, “How long will it take for my tooth to feel normal again?” The healing timeline depends on the severity of the sprain and how well you follow your local certified Scottsdale dentist’s care instructions.
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Mild sprains – Often improve within a few days to a week.
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Moderate sprains – May take 2–4 weeks to heal fully.
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Severe sprains – In rare cases, recovery can take several months, especially if the ligament has been repeatedly stressed.
To support faster healing:
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Avoid chewing on the affected side.
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Stick to softer foods until pain subsides.
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Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth.
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Follow up with your dentist to monitor progress.
Patience is key—ligaments need time to recover, but with proper care, most people regain complete comfort without long-term issues.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Lingering Toothaches
Even if a tooth sprain sounds less severe than a cavity or infection, lingering pain is always a sign that your mouth needs attention. Ignoring a sprained ligament can lead to:
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Chronic pain and difficulty chewing
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Damage to surrounding teeth and tissues
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Increased risk of clenching-related fractures
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Misdiagnosis, if a more serious problem is overlooked
Early diagnosis by a dentist ensures peace of mind and proper treatment before the problem worsens.
Finding Relief with the Right Dental Care
A toothache that won’t go away is never something to brush aside. While cavities and infections often get the blame, a sprained ligament may be the real reason behind your discomfort. The key is getting a proper diagnosis and care plan tailored to your needs.
At our dental practice, our experienced team takes the time to uncover the root cause of your tooth pain. If you need a compassionate and skilled Scottsdale dentist, we’re here to help you get back to a pain-free smile.
Your teeth are designed to last a lifetime—don’t let lingering pain get in the way. Schedule your appointment today and give your smile the care it deserves.
FAQs
Q. Can a sprained tooth ligament heal on its own?
A. Yes, in many cases, it can heal with rest and reduced pressure. However, professional care helps speed recovery and prevents complications.
Q. How long does a sprained ligament take to heal?
A. Mild sprains may heal in a few days, while more severe cases can take several weeks.
Q. Is a sprained tooth ligament dangerous?
A. It’s not typically dangerous, but it can cause discomfort and interfere with chewing. A dentist should always check for persistent pain.
Q. What happens if the pain doesn’t go away?
A. If pain lingers, your dentist may check for hidden fractures, decay, or issues with your bite.
Q. Can kids and teens get sprained tooth ligaments?
A. Yes, especially if they play sports or chew hard foods. Mouthguards can help prevent injuries.