What Are the Different Treatment Options for Pulpitis?
If you notice inflammation in your gums around a specific tooth, coupled with pain from touch or temperature, you may have a case of pulpitis. Pulpitis refers to an infection in your tooth that can kill the tooth and cause a spreading infection if you don’t have it treated.
Come to Stamford dentistry practice for gentle yet effective treatment, but don’t wait too long. A timely visit can mean the difference between a successful remedy and losing the tooth. Call for an appointment today.
The dentists at a dental practice in Stamford, CT specializes in inflammation conditions. They classify pulpitis in two categories:
- Reversible pulpitis
- Irreversible pulpitis
Reversible pulpitis is the less severe form of the condition. Your local family dentists can usually restore the tooth if it’s at this stage. If, however, your pulpitis has progressed, compromising the flow of blood to the dental pulp, it causes the death of the tissue, effectively killing the tooth. This infection leads to irreversible pulpitis.
Causes of Pulpitis
Pulpitis may form for a number of reasons but often is due to neglect or poor dental hygiene. More specific reasons include:
- Cavities and tooth decay allow bacteria to erode the enamel and penetrate deep into your tooth
- Some kinds of dental work or restoration procedures from other dentists
- Too many procedures on the same tooth in an attempt to restore it
- Trauma that compromises the blood supply or lymph circulation
- Excessive consumption of sweet or sour foods that more easily penetrate to the dental pulp in weak areas of your tooth
Reversible pulpitis can lead to irreversible pulpitis if left untreated. The greatest concern of irreversible pulpitis besides losing your tooth is the spread of the infection through your gums, skin and jawbone. Eventually, the infection may reach your sinuses and the rest of your body. Visit your nearby dentist in Stamford to have the infection treated before it becomes dangerous to your overall health.
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Common Symptoms of Pulpitis
Mild or reversible pulpitis usually results in inflammation in your surrounding gums, a symptom similar to that of periodontal disease. Your infected tooth may even feel elevated due to the underlying inflammation that pushes the tooth away from the gums and root. Other initial symptoms include:
- Tooth pain
- Tooth sensitivity when the affected tooth comes in contact with hot or cold liquids or foods
As untreated pulpitis advances, the pain lingers or occurs spontaneously. It may travel along nerve pathways, making it more difficult to determine which tooth is infected. The pain eventually lessens as the pulp dies, but touch or movement near the tooth causes considerable discomfort.
Pulpitis Treatment
Your leading dental specialist performs a thorough dental exam, including digital x-rays, to determine the condition of the dental pulp, as well as the state of your tooth root. Since dental providers have access to the latest equipment and techniques, they may use an electric pulp tester to see if the dental pulp responds to stimulation. The findings determine your course of treatment, based on which type of pulpitis you have. Treatment may include:
- Reversible pulpitis treatment. Your dentist works to remove all signs of infection while attempting to save your tooth. The procedure is similar to filling a cavity. The dentist drills a small hole into the tooth to remove the infection and any damaged tissue. The hole is filled with resin, a strong composite material. Afterward, you may need a round of antibiotics for the inflammation and infection.
- Irreversible pulpitis treatment. Your dentist in Stamford performs a root canal if your diagnosis is irreversible pulpitis. The dead pulp must be removed, and the compromised root cleaned and treated. If your tooth can be saved, your dentist places a customized crown to protect the remainder of your weakened tooth. If the tooth isn’t salvageable, your dentist has to remove the tooth. Then you can discuss a bridge, a partial denture, or an implant.
Preventing Pulpitis
Pulpitis, at the very least, causes discomfort, inflammation, and a disruption of your daily life. If your dentist finds that you’re predisposed to pulpitis, you may need to limit your sugary drinks and maintain a rigorous dental hygiene routine, including brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and keeping your regular dental checkups.
Another excellent way to prevent pulpitis is to schedule an appointment with your Stamford dentist today. Let a qualified dentist examine your teeth to look for unusual wear, decay, and inflammation. Stay in regular communication with your dentist to ensure pulpitis doesn’t jeopardize your health or limit your lifestyle.
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