Tooth pulp is soft tissue inside a tooth, located under the layers of enamel, dentin, and inside of the pulp chamber. Connective tissues, blood vessels, and many nerves are located inside the pulp. Tooth pulp is sometimes called dental pulp, or simply “the nerve” of the tooth. Pulp reaches from the root of the tooth down into the canals and up into the tip of the tooth. The pulp of the tooth serves several purposes including sensory functions like responding to temperature, nourishment functions like keeping the tooth strong, as well as forming the dentin and secondary dentin. Dentin is the whitish mineralized substance that makes up the largest part of the tooth, and is a mix of calcium and minerals that protects the pulp. Dr. Frantz Backer, lead dentist at Advanced Dentistry of New York, in Jackson Heights, New York, helps patients keep tooth pulp healthy, and provides treatment for patients whose pulp becomes damaged.
Pulpitis
Pulpitis is the inflammation of tooth pulp. There are a variety of reasons tooth pulp may become inflamed, including infection, decay, or trauma. Decay is the most common cause of pulpitis. Pulpitis is painful because the tooth pulp is filled with nerves. Tooth pulp problems are very noticeable, and if you experience an issue with the pulp, it will be accompanied by a toothache that will more than likely prompt you to visit the dentist. Your dentist will conduct a variety of tests to determine if the tooth pulp can be saved. Tests may include your dentist evaluating how pain increases in regard to hot or cold compresses, tapping on the tooth to determine the sensitivity of the area, or conducting an electric pulp test. The electric pulp test uses a small electric current to determine if the pulp is alive and responsive to the electrical stimulus.
Treatment
In many cases, the pulp will need to be removed through a root canal because the damage to the pulp is irreversible. Severe inflammation can cause the pulp to die before the dentist performs the root canal. Removing pulp leaves the tooth inviable or deadened because the pulp never regenerates.
If pulpitis is detected early and the pulp can be saved, your dentist will treat the infected area by inserting a filling that contains a mild anesthesia treatment to relieve the pain. This is a temporary treatment, and within a couple of months, a permanent filling will be placed in the tooth.
Preventing Problems
The most effective way to avoid the inflammation and pain associated with pulpitis is to be diligent in caring for your oral health. All of the things your dentist tells you to do to prevent tooth decay and cavities will also help you avoid pulpitis. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, or preferably, after each meal. Floss your teeth twice a day and consider using a water pick or antimicrobial mouth rinse to flush any remaining bacteria. During your next biannual visit to your dentist, request a brushing and flossing lesson. Even if you have been performing these tasks for years, it is a good idea to have a refresher lesson every few years to make sure you have not forgotten any important aspects of the technique. Some people find they have been flossing or brushing incorrectly and adjusting habits helps avoid future problems. Pulp can also be damaged by tooth trauma like a blow to the face. Accidents like this are likely unavoidable, but you should use protective equipment like masks or bite guards when engaging in physical activity or exercise.
Should you find yourself in pain, but unable to see the dentist immediately, there are a few at-home methods of temporarily reducing pain. Avoid foods and beverages that are extremely cold or extremely hot. Also try to stick to soft foods that are not sticky. This not only reduces pain, but it also protects a damaged or weakened tooth from breaking. An anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen will help you tolerate the pain until you are able to visit your dentist.
If your dentist tells you pulpitis has developed in your tooth or that you have damaged tooth pulp, there is no need to panic. If the problem is addressed early on, you can save your tooth, even if it means you will need a treatment like a root canal or a filling. Dr. Frantz Backer frequently deals with patients who come into his office complaining of tooth pain. If you have concerns about the health of your tooth pulp, or the overall maintenance of your oral health, contact him at his office, Advanced Dentistry of New York.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
