If you notice one of your teeth becoming duller or darker, or if you experience a throbbing sensation that comes and goes, you should be wary. These could be signs of a dead tooth nerve.
A non-vital tooth, or dead tooth nerve, may seem trivial, but it's crucial to detect it early. This is because it can become a ticking time bomb if left untreated. To protect your teeth from this, Opal Dental will discuss what dead tooth nerves are and how to treat them.
What are the characteristics of a dead tooth nerve?
Inside the hard, visible part of the tooth is a vital part called the pulp. This part contains blood vessels and nerves that allow us to feel heat, cold, or pain when there's a problem with the tooth.
If this pulp is damaged by infection or impact, blood flow can be cut off and the nerve can die. As a result, the tooth loses its ability to respond to stimuli and can experience changes in condition even though it appears normal on the outside.
Characteristics of Dead Tooth Nerves That Are Often Overlooked
Many people think healthy teeth don't hurt. In fact, dead tooth nerves often don't hurt at all. So, look for the following signs:
- Discoloration (Teeth Appear Darker)
This is the most visible sign. A tooth with a dead nerve usually turns grayish, brownish, or blackish due to changes in the tooth tissue.
- Bad Breath That Won't Go Away
Even though you've brushed your teeth, your breath still stinks? There could be infected tissue inside your teeth, causing the unpleasant odor.
- A lump appears on the gums
Do you have a small, pimple-like bump near your tooth? This could be a sign of an infection (fistula) that's draining pus. It's best not to squeeze it yourself.
- Pain Suddenly Disappears
If you were previously experiencing pain and then it suddenly disappears, don't get too excited. It's possible the nerve has died, so it no longer sends pain, but the infection is still present.
"If You're Not Sick, Why Treat It?"
Even if it's not painful, a tooth with a dead nerve is still dangerous. This condition can become a breeding ground for bacteria and can spread to other areas, even causing swelling or a more serious infection.
Solutions for Teeth with Dead Nerves
Don't panic, a tooth with a dead nerve doesn't always need to be extracted. Usually, your dentist will offer two options:
- Root Canal Treatment (ROT): The inside of the tooth is cleaned of dead tissue, sterilized, and then sealed. The tooth is preserved, but its nerve is no longer present.
- Tooth extraction: performed if the tooth is too damaged and cannot be saved.
Conclusion
A tooth with a dead nerve can't be restored to its original state, but you can still prevent the condition from worsening. If you notice signs like tooth discoloration or a lump on your gums, you should see a dentist immediately.
Remember, prevention is much easier, cheaper, and more convenient than having to treat it when it's already serious.