Dealing With an Infected Dental Pulp

The tooth pulp is the most essential part of the tooth. The pulp is also referred to as the nerve, is soft and consists of living blood vessels, connective tissue, and large nerves. It branches out and continues down each root through the canals of the tooth and stops at the tip of the tooth. The pulp is responsible for dentin formation. If there is trauma, the pulp forms a secondary dentin to add protection. This is called the reparative dentin. The function of the blood vessels found in the pulp is responsible for providing nourishment. It keeps the blood flowing, keeping the tooth moisturized and nourished to prevent it from becoming brittle. Stimulation of the pulp due to trauma or extreme temperatures may cause pain.

What Causes Inflammation of the Pulp?

Inflammation of the pulp, medically known as pulpitis causes extreme pain. The primary cause of pulpitis is tooth decay. Dental injury can also cause this. If not treated, pulpitis can infect the root of the tooth, this condition is sometimes called an abscess. Seeing the dentist is vital if one suspects that they have pulpitis. Once the infection progresses, it can spread to the sinuses, jaw, or even the brain.

The Two Types of Pulpitis

Pulpitis can either be reversible or irreversible. Irreversible pulpitis happens when the pulp is severely damaged and can no longer be saved. The only option is pulp removal through a root canal treatment. This stops the pulp from decaying further inside the tooth. Once the pulp is removed, the tooth will become non-vital. Reversible pulpitis is when the pulp can still be saved. Once the dentist removes the decayed part and replaces it with a filling, the pain and swelling will go away.

What Happens During and After a Root Canal Treatment?

As mentioned above, root canal treatment is the treatment necessary for irreversible pulpitis. Root canal treatment removes the infected pulp, cleanses the pulp chamber, and takes away the decayed material. It is then sealed to fill the hole created by removing decay. Root canal treatment relieves the pain that comes with the infection. The tooth may feel sensitive following a few days after the procedure. The dentist will then give over-the-counter pain relievers.

Delaying treatment for infected pulp prolongs the pain and will develop into something worse. Here at Liberty Lake Smile Source, we offer Root Canal Treatment in Liberty Lake, WA . Let us help you relieve from pain and restore your healthy smile.