Pulpitis refers to the inflammation of the dental pulp, the soft part of the tooth that has nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue within it. Pulpitis is generally linked to excruciating toothache pain, and similarly, it’s one of the leading causes of dental pain. Understanding pulpitis is crucial to managing and avoiding the pain and complications that can be caused by pulpitis.
What Causes Pulpitis?
The most common cause of pulpitis is infection, which is most frequently a result of advanced dental caries (cavity) or tooth trauma. If a cavity develops, bacteria are introduced to the tooth, travel deep into the depth of cavity and infect the pulp. However, physical trauma, i.e., a cracked or broken tooth, can expose the pulp to bacteria, leading to infection and inflammation. In some other cases, regular dental treatments or excessive wear and erosion on the teeth may injure the pulp and lead to pulpitis.
There are two main types of pulpitis: reversible and irreversible. Reversible pulpitis occurs when the inflammation isn’t severe, and the pulp would recover if its cause is addressed instantly. Unrecoverable pulpitis occurs when the damage to the pulp is extensive and cannot be healed, generally requiring further invasive treatment.
Symptoms of Pulpitis
The typical symptom of pulpitis is an acute toothache. The pain may come on suddenly and may range from mild discomfort to excruciating, throbbing pain. It’s frequently provoked by stimulants such as hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, and it may persist even after the stimulus is removed. In reversible pulpitis, the pain will evaporate upon removing the cause, whereas in unrecoverable pulpitis, the pain becomes endless and not soothed by time.
Some other signs that may indicate pulpitis are:
1. Perceptivity to temperature, more so to cold or heat
2. Pain upon contact close to the involved tooth
3. Abrasion of the tooth
4. Catching pain or pain upon touching or biting with the tooth
In extreme situations, infection can lead to inflammation of the tissues around the root of the tooth and pus formation. Sometimes, pus can drain through the gum, creating a sinus.
Diagnosing Pulpitis
To diagnose pulpitis, a dentist will perform a thorough examination, which may include taking X-rays. The test will help the dentist assess how much damage has been done to the tooth and its supporting structures. The dentist will also use several different ways, such as assessing cold and hot tests, to assess how the pulp reacts to stimulation. When the pulp is bothered, it may respond roughly to some temperatures.
Treatment Options for Pulpitis
The treatment for pulpitis will vary depending on the degree of the condition. For reversible pulpitis, the treatment could be eliminating the cause of the condition, i.e., filling the depression or treating any trauma to the tooth. This could involve filling the depression or performing a less invasive procedure to fill the tooth. Simultaneously, a crown can be placed to cover the tooth from further damage.
In case of irreversible pulpitis, where the pulp is severely damaged, a root canal treatment will be required. During a root canal procedure, the infected pulp is removed and the root canal is gutted, sealed, and filled to prevent further infection. However, tooth extraction might be followed if the infection is too advanced for the tooth to be saved.
How to Prevent Pulpitis
Prevention of pulpitis is largely a matter of following correct oral hygiene practices. Brushing one’s teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and having regular check-ups at the dental clinic can help avoid cavities and other oral issues that can advance to pulpitis. Prevention of pulpitis can also be assured by abstaining from dental trauma and seeking timely treatment of dental issues or pain.
Pulpitis is a critical oral illness that induces severe pain that can disturb one’s emotions. Moreover, it can develop into an abscess or the tooth might be lost if left unattended. Identification and care as early as possible are vital to treating pulpitis effectively and keeping the mouth healthy. Therefore, you must see a dentist immediately to determine the cause and receive proper treatment if you witness recurring toothaches.
