Pulpitis

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This is the inflammation of the pulp, or nerve chamber inside the tooth creating pain and pressure.  The pressure created can cause problems with the nerves of the tooth.  The pulp is the inner part of your tooth that protects the nerve endings.  This problem can be treated if caught early, and usually doesn’t result in further problems once addressed. 

Causes of Pulpitis:

• Bacteria reaches deep into the structure of the tooth
• Trauma to the tooth
• Lots of treatments such as dental tooth fillings or dental crowns

Symptoms of Pulpitis

There usually pain when a stimulus is placed near the tooth.  The tooth normally reacts to heat or sugar.  When the pulpitis is not too advanced the pain disappears as soon as the problem is taken away.  When the pulpitis is advanced, and potentially irreversible, the pain lingers for some time.  You may not be able to locate the exact tooth causing the problem.  In severe cases pain will be found in areas seemingly unconnected with the affected tooth, such as the face.  Dental abscesses can occur when pulpitis is advanced. 

Pulpitis Treatment

Reversible pulpitis is treated in the same way as a normal filling would be.  The affected area is treated, decay is removed via drilling and then the cavity left is filled.  You will be given antibiotics to kill off any infections. Irreversible pulpitis requires a root canal and a crown to rectify the problem.  This is sometimes not always possible and the tooth might need to be removed and replaced with a dental implant. The best way to avoid pulpitis is to maintain a good oral hygiene routine, prevention is better than the cure.

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