The Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment of a Dead Tooth

Teeth are living parts of the body with a blood supply and a nerve supply.

A tooth is described as dead or necrotic when there is no more blood flow into and within the tooth leading to death of the the nerve within the tooth. A failure in blood flow can be caused by infection, tooth decay or injury to the tooth.

Sometimes a dead tooth becomes darker in colour but this is often not the case. But only a dental professional can diagnose and treat it.

Treatment of a Dead Tooth

Early treatment is necessary to prevent bacterial infection from reaching the root and attacking other teeth and the jawbone.

Even if there is no pain, you should immediately visit your dentist when you suspect a dead tooth. The dentist will make a diagnosis using an x-ray.

Treatment for a dead tooth can involve:

1. Extraction of the tooth if it cannot be repaired. Early treatment will ensure no unnecessary loss of a tooth. The tooth is then replaced through an implant or a fixed bridge.
2. A root canal treatment to clear all infection from within the tooth and root. The tooth is cleaned and sealed to prevent a repeat infection. Root canal treatment has a high success rate of 80-95% if conducted carefully by a skilled dentist and if successful the tooth can be retained and the symptoms eliminated. Once the infection and pain has been successfully eliminated the appearance of the tooth can be improved with internal whitening, or a crown or veneer.

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http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319062.php

 

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