What is tooth necrosis?

Dental necrosis or dental pulp death is one of the serious and painful problems in oral and dental health, which if not treated in time, can lead to infection, abscess, and even tooth loss. Many people are unaware of the presence of necrosis in their teeth until the disease progresses, because in the early stages it may be without pain or symptoms. In this article from the **best orthodontic specialist in Mashhad** website, we comprehensively examine what dental necrosis is, what are its symptoms, what factors cause it, how is it diagnosed, and what are the solutions for its treatment and prevention. What is tooth necrosis? Dental pulp necrosis is a condition in which the living tissue inside the tooth (pulp) — including blood vessels and nerves — is destroyed or dies for various reasons. This condition is usually the result of severe trauma, deep decay, or untreated infection. Dental Pulp Necrosis is the death of pulp cells inside the tooth, which is caused by blood supply disruption and severe inflammation. The main symptoms of tooth necrosis In the early stages, necrosis may be asymptomatic. But gradually the following symptoms appear: Common symptoms: • Severe pain, especially when eating or drinking hot/cold drinks Change in tooth color (gray, brown or black) • Persistent bad breath • Tenderness or pressure when biting • Swelling of the gums around the teeth • Abscess formation or pus discharge • Sensation of loose teeth Note: Some patients may not have pain at all, but tooth discoloration can be a sign of silent necrosis. **Read more" to know the main methods of strengthening tooth enamel** What are the most important causes of tooth necrosis? Pulp necrosis is caused by direct or indirect damage to the pulp tissue. The most common reasons are: 1. Deep tooth decay When the decay reaches the pulp layer, it causes severe inflammation (pulpitis) and leads to necrosis if not treated. 2. physical trauma (dental trauma) Severe trauma to the tooth (such as falling or being hit by a hard object) may damage the nerves and blood vessels. 3. Cracked or fractured tooth Deep cracks can create a pathway for bacteria to enter the pulp. 4. Invasive dental restorations Repeated or intense treatments may damage the pulp and disrupt blood flow. Progression stages of tooth necrosis 1\. Reversible pulpitis (mild inflammation) 2\. Irreversible pulpitis (severe and permanent inflammation) 3\. Pulp necrosis (death of pulp cells) 4\. Periapical abscess (root tip and jaw bone infection) How to diagnose tooth necrosis? To accurately diagnose tooth necrosis, the dentist uses the following methods: • Examination of clinical symptoms such as pain, swelling or discoloration • Pulp thermal or electrical testing To check the nerve reaction of the tooth • Radiography (photography) To observe decay, bone loss or abscess • Impact or pressure test To measure sensitivity when biting **Read more" The main reasons for yellowing teeth during orthodontics** Treatment methods for tooth necrosis 1. root canal treatment The most common method of treating tooth necrosis is root canal therapy. In this method: • The necrotic pulp is removed • Dental canals are cleaned and disinfected • The tooth is filled and then restored (with a filling or veneer) 2. tooth extraction In cases where tooth decay is too great or root canal treatment is not successful, the tooth should be extracted. 3. Endocrown or veneer repair After root canal treatment, depending on the extent of crown destruction, the tooth may require a veneer or endocrown for long-term protection. Is tooth necrosis dangerous? yes If left untreated, necrosis can lead to widespread infections, abscesses, jaw bone loss, and even spread of infection to other areas of the body. For this reason, early diagnosis and rapid treatment are very important. **Read more" The main reasons for gingivitis and treatment methods** How to prevent tooth necrosis? Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent tooth necrosis, observe the following: Regular brushing (2 times a day) Use dental floss Regular visits to the dentist for periodical examination Immediate repair of surface decay Protecting teeth while exercising with a dental guard Avoid biting very hard foods Immediate treatment of any trauma or tooth fracture #### Summary Dental necrosis is one of the common but serious problems of the mouth and teeth, which is often caused by decay or trauma. Early diagnosis and proper treatment is the key to prevent its serious complications. If you have any suspicious symptoms such as pain, tooth discoloration or bad breath, be sure to consult a dentist. ###