When your oral health is strong, your teeth are considered “alive”. Every tooth inside of your mouth is a living part of the human body and, yes, there is also a concept of your teeth becoming “dead”.
The concept of a dead tooth means that it is possible for your a tooth to be considered no longer usable owing to a lack of blood flow. Your teeth have three individual layers:
- The outer layer which is enamel
- The inner layer surrounding the tooth root called cementum
- The third layer placed underneath the enamel called the dentin
Pulp lies underneath the enamel layer, comprising of tooth nerves, vessels and tissue. When the pulp is harmed owing to enamel erosion, tooth decay and the dentin becoming exposed owing to poor oral health, this leads to nerve pressure, which can lead to infection. This results in a high degree of swelling and sensitivity. This means your tooth is dead.
A Dead Tooth – What’s Next?
If you have a dead tooth, it is unwise for it to remain inside of the mouth. Therefore, the dentist will consider the following solutions for it:
Tooth Extraction
Tooth extraction is considered the most viable form of treatment if you have a dead tooth. The procedure involves applying local or general anaesthesia within the affected area and the dead tooth is gripped tightly and gently rocked from side to side with forceps equipment before being removed. This will require rest for faster healing, and the dentist may recommend further restorative treatment ensures the underlying gum and bone doesn’t destimulate.
Root Canal
After examining the affected area, the dentist will always try to save your tooth before extraction. There are many benefits of saving a tooth compared to any root canal dangers. If the infection isn’t as severe as first thought, the dentist will aim to remove any infection and the affected area will be thoroughly cleaned. A crown is then placed as a seal to protect the remains of the healthy tooth.
When experiencing a dead tooth for the first time, the dentist will recommend you change your oral routine and pay more attention to your oral health. From the perspective of oral hygiene, brush and floss your teeth every day, keep your enamel strong with a balanced diet and ensure food debris stays clear from your mouth to avoid potentially dangerous plaque build-up.
Are you seeking treatment of a dead tooth from a local dentist? Contact us today and we’d be happy to help.
