Pulpitis – Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

In this article, we’ll discuss pulpitis, a painful and potentially serious dental issue. We’ll look into the causes, symptoms, and treatment options, providing essential information for understanding and addressing this condition.

What Are Pulpitis?

Pulpitis occurs when the pulp or the tissue in the center of the tooth, becomes inflamed. The dental pulp is a bundle of connective tissue that sits below the dentin. It contains the teeth’s sensory nerves and blood vessels.

Depending on the extent of the pulp inflammation, pulpitis can either be reversible or irreversible. Reversible pulpitis has mild inflammation and can be treated with a dental filling.

Irreversible pulpitis involves inflammation in the dental pulp chamber. At this point, the damage is irreversible, and a root canal is needed. If left untreated, it can cause necrosis or tissue death of the pulp, resulting in an infection.

If irreversible pulpitis progresses to necrosis, you’ll start to experience pain while chewing. Necrosis may also cause your tooth to feel higher than normal when you bite.

What Causes Pulpitis?

Pulpitis is typically caused by cavities, tooth decay, or injury. It can also be caused by multiple fillings, invasive dental procedures like crowns, or teeth grinding. 

Pulpitis is often reversible at first and progresses to irreversible pulpitis without treatment. The symptoms you experience depend on whether you have reversible or irreversible pulpitis.

Reversible pulpitis tends to cause temporary tooth pain when teeth are exposed to cold or sweet foods or beverages. This tooth pain tends to go away 1 to 2 seconds after the exposure stops.

However, the pain from irreversible pulpitis is typically intense and can:

• Occur spontaneously or randomly
• Linger for a few minutes after exposure to hot or cold
• Cause pain in other parts of the mouth, making it difficult to tell where the pain comes from (referred pain)
• Inflame the tissues surrounding the impacted tooth

What are the Treatment Options for Pulpitis?

The best treatment option for pulpitis depends on whether it is reversible or irreversible.

Treatments for Reversible Pulpitis

Many people who receive treatment for reversible pulpitis can save their damaged teeth. A 2021 study examined people with reversible pulpitis caused by tooth cracks. 

72% of the people who received splinting and 94% who had a crown placed still had a healthy pulp 4 years after treatment. To treat reversible pulpitis, a dentist will often:

• Remove the cause, such as cavities or leaking restoration materials (crowns, fillings, sealants, etc.).
• Restore or cover damaged parts of teeth by placing sealers or crowns in regions with exposed dentin.
• Schedule regular check-ups to ensure symptoms are not worsening.
• Advise you to schedule an appointment if symptoms worsen.

Treatments for Irreversible Pulpitis

Most people with irreversible pulpitis undergo a root canal treatment or tooth extraction. During the procedure, a dentist removes the damaged tooth pulp during a root canal. 

If a root canal is successful, you may be able to save your tooth. The tooth will still receive nourishment from the surrounding blood vessels and tissues even without a viable pulp.

If a root canal isn’t possible given the extent of the problem, your tooth may be extracted. The recovery time from a tooth extraction depends on the complexity of the surgery. Most people recover from an extraction after 48 to 72 hours. 

However, the jawbone can take several weeks to heal. If you get a dental implant after extraction, it will probably take a few months to fully complete treatment.

When to See a Dentist for Pulpitis

Cases of reversible and irreversible pulpitis both require professional dental care. Talk to a dentist if you experience:

• New or worsening tooth sensitivity or tooth pain
• Inflamed, tender, or bleeding gums
• Severe pain while biting or chewing
• Pimples or sores on gums
• Cracked or chipped teeth
• Darkening of the gums
• Teeth that look discolored or diseased

Can You Prevent Pulpitis?

There are several things you can do to help prevent pulpitis. Practicing good oral hygiene and visiting the dentist regularly can help immensely. Going to the dentist can also help you catch dental problems early.

Limit your consumption of sugary, sweet, and acidic foods or drinks. Try eating a healthier diet rich in leafy greens and fruits to improve your overall oral health. 

Avoid grinding or clenching your teeth to prevent irritating your teeth and gums. You can even wear a mouthguard at night to stop your teeth from grinding.

Can Pulpitis Cause Complications?

Potential complications associated with pulpitis include:

• Periodontitis —  Gum infections
• Dental or periapical abscess — Bacterial nerve-related infections
• Cellulitis — Bacterial infections that have progressed to the head or neck
• Osteomyelitis — Inflammation and pain in the jawbones

Rarely, infections or inflammation from pulpitis can spread. This then causes:

• Sinusitis — Infection and swelling in the lining of the nose
• Meningitis — infection and swelling in the membranes surrounding the spinal cord and brain
• Brain abscesses — infections in brain matter
• Orbital cellulitis — infections and swelling in the muscles and fat around the eye
• Cavernous sinus thrombosis — blood clots in part of the sinuses

While pulpitis can be a challenging dental concern, early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent further complications.

By practicing good oral hygiene, limiting sugary intake, and scheduling regular dental check-ups, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing pulpitis and maintain optimal oral health.