WHAT IS PULPITIS?
Inside each tooth lies a soft center called the dental pulp. Because of the soft nature of this substance, a crack or break in the outer layer of a tooth’s enamel can cause inflammation and infection, otherwise known as pulpitis. Depending on the injury or disease causing the pulpitis, your mouth, neck or face can swell or turn red. As with any inflammation or infection, pain is the most common symptom of pulpitis. There are 2 types of pulpitis known as reversible pulpitis and irreversible pulpitis.
REVERSIBLE PULPITIS
Reversible pulpitis causes you to experience limited inflammation and restoration of the tooth is possible. To treat reversible pulpitis, a small hole is drilled to access the tooth and clean out the decay, infection, and inflammation. After ensuring the infection is gone, the cavity will be filled with a composite filling. Sometimes a crown or onlay may be required to help save the tooth if a filling is not sufficient.
IRREVERSIBLE PULPITIS
If the blood flow and circulation to the tooth have been compromised, the dental pulp can die. The ensuing infection turns into irreversible pulpitis. If you have irreversible pulpitis, an endodontist must perform a root canal procedure to save the rest of the tooth. Making an opening in the top of your tooth, special tools will be used to remove the infection, inflammation, and dental pulp. After cleaning and shaping the canal, it will be filled in with a specialized material. Frequently, after a root canal procedure is completed, a crown is needed to safeguard the integrity of the tooth and restore it to proper function.
WHO IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR ROOT CANAL THERAPY?
Ideal candidates for root canal therapy are individuals who are looking to treat an infection in the tooth. In the majority of cases, patients with advanced tooth decay or pulpal infections are candidates for a root canal, as it is a necessary treatment to ensure the overall health of your smile. To determine what treatment plan is right for you and your specific needs, Dr. John Koutsoyiannis will perform a detailed evaluation of your teeth, gums, and smile.