The hard outer surface on your teeth is called the enamel. The pulp is a softer layer deep inside the tooth. The pulp contains the tooth's blood vessels and nerves.
What is pulpitis?
Pulpitis is painful inflammation (swelling) of your tooth pulp.
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Pulpitis is usually caused by tooth decay
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Injury to your tooth can also cause pulpitis
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If treated, mild pulpitis usually gets better with no problems
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Pulpitis can lead to infection that can spread to your jaw or other parts of your body
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Dentists treat severe pulpitis by doing a root canal or taking out the tooth
What causes pulpitis?
What are the symptoms of pulpitis?
Pulpitis causes:
Pulpitis that involves infection by bacteria usually causes constant pain. The bacteria may form a collection of pus called an abscess Dental Abscess An abscess is a collection of pus. Pus is a mix of white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria. It builds up wherever your body is fighting an infection. A dental abscess is an abscess that... read more . Sometimes the infection can spread to other parts of your body. If you have an abscess, the tooth is very painful and is sensitive to pressure or tapping with a dental tool.
How can dentists tell if I have pulpitis?
How do dentists treat pulpitis?
For mild pulpitis, dentists will take out any decay and fill the cavities. Sometimes dentists use a temporary filling with pain medicine in it for 6 to 8 weeks before putting in a permanent one.
If the pulp is badly damaged and can't be healed, dentists will give you pain medicine and either:
If you have an infection, they'll also give you antibiotics.
