A dead tooth nerve can be dangerous if left untreated. A dead nerve in the tooth indicates deep decay or infection. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the surrounding tissue and cause more serious problems.
Although it may not cause pain under certain conditions, the bacteria inside the tooth will not die and will spread to the jawbone.
Because this will later cause problems such as:
- tooth abscess
- bad breath
- brittle teeth
- infection throughout the body
So don't assume that a dead, painless tooth nerve is safe. In the previous articleDrg. Agrippina Hadi Sp.KGhave discussed about Characteristics of dead tooth nerves.
How Long Does It Take for a Tooth's Cavity Nerve to Die?
There's no set time. Tooth nerves can die at varying rates, depending on the severity of the cavity and infection.
Some cavities can last for weeks or months. Therefore, it's best not to wait for the pain to go away on its own.
Based on medical procedures from dentist in YogyakartaThe process of killing the tooth nerve can be accelerated and only takes about 1 - 2 days.
The following is the process of naturally killing tooth nerves:
- Initial Irritation: tooth sensitivity when eating sweet, hot or cold food
- Inflammation (Pulpitis): Continuous throbbing pain due to infection in the pulp cavity.
- Neuronal death: pain suddenly disappears because there is no longer a blood and oxygen supply.
Do Dead Teeth Have to Be Extracted?
Not always. If the tooth is still in a condition that allows for saving, the dentist can usually perform root canal treatment. Extraction is an option if the tooth is too damaged to be saved.
What are the effects if the tooth nerve is killed?
After the nerve is removed through root canal treatment, the tooth no longer has nerve tissue and therefore cannot sense stimuli as it once did. However, the tooth can still be used for chewing. Depending on its condition, the tooth usually needs to be protected with a filling or crown.
Can a Tooth That Has Been Affected Be Extracted?
Yes. A tooth that is infected or has a dead nerve can still be extracted if it cannot be saved. However, extraction isn't always the first option. The dentist will first examine the tooth to determine whether it can still be treated or whether it's better to remove it.