What is a key characteristic of acute pulpitis?

Acute pulpitis is characterized by intense and often severe pain that is notably exacerbated by stimuli, including percussion. The pain associated with acute pulpitis is typically sharp and can be spontaneous, which makes it a hallmark symptom of this condition. When a tooth is tapped or subjected to pressure, the inflamed dental pulp reacts, leading to a rapid increase in pain levels. This is primarily due to the inflammation and infection that occurs within the pulp chamber of the tooth, which puts pressure on the sensitive nerve endings.

Understanding the nature of the pain as severe and responsive to percussion is critical in diagnosing acute pulpitis. Such pain contrasts sharply with other dental conditions where pain levels or responses to stimulation may differ, such as with chronic pulpitis or tooth decay, where pain may not be as intense or immediate.