An exposed tooth nerve occurs when the protective outer layers of a tooth, the enamel and dentin, are damaged or worn away, leaving the sensitive inner part, the pulp, vulnerable. The pulp contains nerves and blood vessels essential for the tooth’s vitality. When these nerves are exposed to external stimuli, it causes intense discomfort and pain, indicating a need for professional dental intervention.
Recognizing an Exposed Tooth Nerve
Sharp, throbbing pain is a common sign of an exposed tooth nerve, which can sometimes radiate to other areas of the face. This pain often intensifies with temperature changes, such as consuming hot or cold beverages, or when eating sweet or acidic foods. The exposed nerve reacts intensely to air, sugar, and pressure, leading to immediate pain.
Sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli is a key symptom, where even mild temperature fluctuations can trigger discomfort. Pain might also occur spontaneously or worsen when chewing or applying pressure to the tooth. Swelling and redness around the affected tooth or gums can also indicate an exposed nerve, potentially signaling an underlying infection.
Immediate Steps for Relief
While waiting for a dental appointment, several temporary measures can help manage the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce discomfort and inflammation. Applying a cold compress to the outside of the cheek near the affected area for 15-20 minutes can help numb the pain and reduce swelling.
Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can provide temporary relief by acting as an antiseptic and reducing inflammation. Avoid hot, cold, sweet, or acidic foods and drinks, as these can trigger sharp pain. If available, a temporary dental filling material or sugar-free gum can be used to cover the exposed area, providing a temporary barrier against external stimuli.
Professional Dental Treatments
Professional dental treatments for an exposed tooth nerve vary depending on the extent of the damage and the health of the pulp. For minor exposures where only the dentin is affected, a dental filling or crown may be sufficient to seal the tooth and protect its inner structures. Composite or amalgam fillings are commonly used to cover the compromised area.
When the pulp is nearly exposed or has a small exposure, pulp capping procedures are performed to protect and preserve it. Indirect pulp capping involves removing most decay but leaving a thin layer of softened dentin over the pulp, then applying a protective liner to encourage healing and new dentin formation. Direct pulp capping is used when the pulp is visibly exposed, where a protective material is placed directly over the exposed pulp tissue.
If the pulp is irreversibly inflamed or infected, a root canal treatment is necessary. This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the root canals, and then sealing them. A dental crown is often placed over the treated tooth afterward to restore its strength and function. In severe cases where the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be the last resort.
Consequences of Untreated Nerve
Ignoring an exposed tooth nerve can lead to serious complications. The exposed pulp is vulnerable to bacterial invasion, which can result in a painful dental abscess. An abscess is a pus-filled pocket that forms at the tooth’s root or in the surrounding bone, causing severe pain and swelling.
Left untreated, this infection can spread beyond the tooth to the jawbone, leading to bone loss and affecting adjacent teeth. The infection may also spread to other parts of the body, posing broader health risks. Untreated extensive damage or infection can ultimately lead to the loss of the affected tooth.
Preventing Exposed Tooth Nerves
Preventing exposed tooth nerves involves adopting good oral hygiene practices and avoiding habits that can damage teeth. Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing once a day helps remove plaque and bacteria, preventing decay that can lead to nerve exposure. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings allow dentists to detect and address issues like decay or gum disease in their early stages.
Using a soft-bristled toothbrush and brushing gently can prevent enamel wear and gum recession, which expose tooth roots and nerves. For individuals who grind or clench their teeth (bruxism), wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard, especially at night, can protect teeth from excessive wear. Avoiding habits such as chewing on ice, biting hard objects, or using teeth to open packages also helps prevent cracks or fractures.