Pulpitis is inflammation of the dental pulp, which can be reversible or irreversible. Bacterial decay is usually the cause, but trauma can also be a factor. Treatment involves eliminating the cause, antibiotics, drilling, or root canals, but in extreme cases, the tooth may need to be extracted.
Pulpitis is a term that refers to inflammation of the internal tissue of the teeth, called the dental pulp. This condition can be classified as reversible or irreversible, and the treatment regimen for both may vary based on this categorization. Often, bacteria can be the cause of the inflamed pulp, but sometimes it can be related to other causes such as trauma to the mouth. Infections and other triggers can cause an immune system response, leading to swelling of the pulp and pressure against the outer tooth enamel. Sometimes, the structure of the nerves in the teeth can make it difficult to find the exact source of the pulpitis, because the pain can spread from the initial location to neighboring teeth.
Bacterial decay, called dental decay, that spreads beyond the outer layers of the teeth to infect the pulp is usually, but not always, the cause of pulpitis. Immune responses to infection or trauma can often include increased blood flow to the area so that white blood cells called lymphocytes can reach the site, and some of the chemicals released by lymphocytes and other cells can lead to inflammation. Depending on the severity of this swelling, various levels of pain could be caused. In some cases, an individual with this condition may not feel any pain at all, but in others, they may experience a sharp throbbing pain that coincides with blood reaching the area, along with an increased sensitivity to temperature.
Reversible pulpitis is often characterized by pain from external stimuli that fades after a few minutes. Treatment for this type of inflamed pulp usually involves eliminating its cause. This can be as simple as using dental care products that can remineralize your teeth and restore the protective outer layer of enamel. Other times, antibiotics may be needed to treat an underlying infection or drilling may be required to remove the damaged area, followed by a filling placed over the site.
When irreversible pulpitis occurs, it generally causes pain that can remain for up to 10 seconds after a trigger is removed. Irreparable damage like this can sometimes be detected by electronic means or through X-rays. There is no real cure for this condition, so often the dental pulp must be removed completely for a person to get relief. Root canals, which remove the pulp, can sometimes be performed, but in extreme cases, the entire tooth may need to be extracted.
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