What is a Dead Tooth?

To understand that your teeth can die, you must first understand that your teeth are alive. Each tooth is made up of three different layers: the enamel, the dentin, and the pulp. The enamel is the hardest substance in the human body and is the layer that is visible when you smile. It is also the layer that protects the inner layers of the teeth. The dentin and the pulp are made up of nerve fibers and blood vessels that supply a constant blood flow to the teeth. As with all areas of the body, if the tooth loses its blood supply it will die.

Decay and trauma are the most common causes for a tooth to die. They can both affect the inner structure of a tooth that can lead it to lose a constant access to the blood supply. When a cavity forms inside a tooth, it is imperative that it receive prompt attention and treatment so that its decay will not spread throughout the mouth. Cavities, gum disease, or other forms of dental decay can quickly spread due to the living tissues inside the mouth. If an infection enters the blood flow, it can cause significant damage. If the infection reaches the inner structure of the tooth, it can cut off the nerves and blood vessels from the continuous blood supply, thus killing the tooth. Once this occurs, there is no treatment that can be done to save the tooth or to restore life to it. It will either require root canal therapy or extraction.

Trauma and injury can also cause a tooth to die, and this is typically a much more immediate occurrence. If a tooth is knocked out of the mouth or has received blunt force trauma that has severed the roots of the tooth, it will immediately lose its blood supply. Any injury to the teeth or mouth should be evaluated by a dentist as quickly as possible for any hope of saving a tooth.

At Siena Dental we are here to help you achieve and maintain a healthy smile that will last for a lifetime. With regular dental cleanings and exams combined with proactive oral health habits at home, your teeth can be spared from serious complications. Dental emergencies do occur, and if you have had a tooth die due to injury or trauma, we will help you restore the health of your mouth. Siena Dental wants to provide the highest standard in oral health to you. Please call us today to schedule an appointment.

Posted on behalf of Dr. Dave Mahon, Siena Dental