A “dead tooth,” also known as a non-vital tooth, refers to a tooth where the inner living tissue, the pulp, has died. This pulp contains nerves and blood vessels essential for the tooth’s health.
What is a Dead Tooth?
A tooth has three main layers: the outer enamel, the underlying dentin, and the innermost pulp. The pulp is a soft tissue found in the center of the tooth, extending into the roots, and it houses nerves, connective tissue, and blood vessels. When the blood supply to the pulp is cut off or the tissue is severely damaged, the pulp dies.
Several factors can cause a tooth to die. Deep tooth decay is a common cause, as untreated cavities can penetrate through the enamel and dentin, allowing bacteria to infect the pulp. Physical trauma, such as a blow to the mouth from an accident or sports injury, can also damage the blood vessels supplying the pulp, interrupting blood flow and causing the tissue to die. Repeated dental procedures on a tooth can sometimes weaken its structure, increasing the risk of pulp damage.
Why a Dead Tooth Might Hurt
Pain from a dying or dead tooth can range from mild discomfort to intense, throbbing sensations. This pain often results from inflammation within the dying pulp or pressure buildup as bacteria multiply. This pressure can affect surrounding nerve endings, causing pain upon biting or chewing, or sensitivity to hot and cold stimuli.
A dead tooth may not cause immediate pain, or existing pain might subside. This can occur once the nerve within the tooth has completely died and is no longer able to send pain signals. However, the absence of pain does not mean the problem has resolved; the dead tissue inside the tooth remains, allowing bacteria to thrive and potentially lead to further complications, such as an abscess.
Recognizing Other Signs
Beyond pain, a dead tooth often shows other signs. A common indicator is a change in the tooth’s color. It may appear yellow, light brown, gray, or even black, due to the breakdown of red blood cells and other tissues within the pulp. This discoloration typically becomes more pronounced over time.
Other signs often indicate an infection or abscess. Swelling around the gum line near the affected tooth can develop. A persistent bad taste in the mouth or bad breath may also be present. In some cases, a pimple-like bump, known as a fistula or gum boil, might appear on the gums, indicating an abscess is draining. Untreated infection can lead to serious health issues, including the spread of bacteria to the jawbone, surrounding teeth, or into the bloodstream, potentially causing systemic infections like cellulitis or sepsis.
Addressing a Dead Tooth
Diagnosing a dead tooth involves a thorough clinical examination by a dentist. This includes X-rays to check for signs of infection around the root, such as bone loss, and performing pulp vitality tests, which assess the tooth’s response to stimuli like cold. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, which can prevent more extensive damage and complications.
The main treatment options for a dead tooth are root canal therapy or tooth extraction. Root canal therapy involves removing the infected pulp, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then sealing it to prevent further infection. This procedure aims to save the tooth and restore its function. If the tooth is too severely damaged or infection is extensive, extraction may be necessary. After extraction, options like dental implants or bridges can replace the missing tooth.