A tooth contains three layers: the pulp, enamel, and dentin. To stay healthy and alive, the pulp of the tooth must have a continuous blood supply. When the nerves in the tooth pulp get damaged due to an injury or decay and no longer receive any blood supply, it creates a dead tooth. If left untreated, the dead tooth may affect the jaw and other teeth.
Read on to learn more about the causes, signs, and treatment of a dead tooth.
The possible causes of a dead tooth are:
You can identify a dead tooth by these two primary symptoms:
People with a dead tooth may experience these symptoms too:
It is recommended to visit your dentist as soon as you have a tooth injury or if you notice any kind of pain and discoloration in your tooth so that they can begin the treatment. A dentist may find a dead tooth during dental checkups and through dental X-rays.
A dead tooth can be treated by any of the following procedures:
During this procedure, the infected tooth and its root will be cleaned to remove the abscess or infected tissue. After cleaning, your dentist will seal the root and place the permanent filling to prevent further infection.
A dead tooth can function after treatment, but a crown or veneer may be required to provide extra strength and support.
Your dentist may recommend removing your tooth if it cannot be restored or is severely damaged. During the procedure, your dentist will completely remove your tooth. However, you can replace the extracted tooth with a denture, implant, or bridge.
Follow these tips to prevent a dead tooth:
If you are looking for the best treatment for a dead tooth, contact our leading dentists at Plaza Dental Group in Des Moines.