endodontist in 23233 in her clinic
May 11, 2022

Thinking that a terrible toothache isn’t a big deal could be a big mistake if the pain you’re feeling is a warning sign of pulpitis. Unless you consult a trusted endodontist in 23233, the infection could spread to other parts of your body, leading to serious medical complications.  

endodontist in 23233 working on a patient's mouth

Facts About Pulpitis You Should Know

What Is Pulpitis?

Inside each tooth lies the dental pulp, which houses the tooth’s soft connective tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. Pulpitis occurs when the acid-forming bacteria that cause tooth decay and cavities spread to the tooth’s pulp and roots. Moreover, this condition refers to the painful inflammation of the dental pulp. 

What Are the Two Types of Pulpitis?

Reversible Pulpitis

Reversible pulpitis involves a mild inflammation in the dental pulp due to a small cavity. Since the hole in the tooth isn’t extensive, a patient with reversible pulpitis typically experiences bearable and short-lived pain whenever they eat something sweet or cold. 

Moreover, the endodontist can treat reversible pulpitis with a simple procedure if the cavity is detected early. Since the pulp is usually healthy, timely and proper tooth treatment can save the problematic tooth. 

Irreversible Pulpitis

Irreversible pulpitis is a painful dental pulp inflammation due to bacterial infection. This condition is characterized by spontaneous, lingering, and radiating pain that can be so severe that it wakes a person up in the middle of the night. For this reason, irreversible pulpitis is one of the most common reasons people seek emergency dental care. 

In most cases, the pocket of pus, known as a periapical abscess, forms at the end of the tooth’s root. If this problem is left untreated, the infection at the end of the tooth eventually leads to pulp necrosis or pulp death. In worst cases, it may even spread to the other parts of the body, including the brain. 

endodontist in 23233 treating a patient's mouth

Looking for an Endodontist in 23233?

At Commonwealth Endodontics, we’ll go above and beyond to save your teeth and give you a healthy and beautiful smile. Call now to make an appointment.