What Happens to a Dead Tooth?

Dental health is connected to your overall health, which is why caring for your teeth is so important. This includes your daily oral hygiene routine, regular dental checkups, and even certain lifestyle factors such as smoking and your diet. Dental issues need to be treated quickly as they can cause larger problems without intervention. If left untreated, cavities and tooth decay can lead to tooth infections and dead teeth. Below you will find more information on what happens to a dead tooth if it is left untreated.

The Anatomy of Your TeethYour teeth are extremely strong and can withstand a lot of pressure. However, they are not indestructible and require regular care to maintain their strength. Your teeth are made up of both hard and soft tissues. These include your enamel, dentin, and the pulp of your teeth. Your enamel is the outermost layer and the first layer of defense for your teeth. The second layer is the dentin which surrounds the pulp. The pulp is also referred to as the “root” of your teeth.

What Happens to a Dead Tooth?Dental issues that are left untreated can impact the pulp of your teeth. When the pulp of your teeth is impacted, you’ll likely need a root canal if the tooth is not dead yet. An infected tooth that is left untreated can die, and the infection can spread all over your body. This can be lethal and should be avoided at all costs.

Tooth DecayTooth decay can result in the form of cavities, infection, and even tooth loss. The harmful bacteria in your mouth can live in the plaque on your teeth. The bacteria in plaque can convert the sugars in your food to acids. The plaque buildup and acids can lead to tooth damage which comes in various stages. Most often your enamel will be impacted as it is your tooth’s first layer of defense. Once the enamel is impacted, the decay can impact the dentin and eventually the pulp. If left untreated, you can get an infection which can lead to a dead tooth. A dead tooth must be removed, which is why getting treatment early, in addition to a healthy oral hygiene routine is crucial.

Treatment OptionsThere are a variety of treatment options, and removing your natural tooth is often the last resort. Your dentist will do their best to save your natural tooth, but it may require removal if the issue is bad enough. If you are concerned about your teeth, your Los Angeles root canal dentist can examine them and determine the severity of the issue with an X-ray and a physical examination of your mouth. Your tooth may require a root canal which can save your natural tooth and help you get your oral health back in order. A root canal involves removing the infected pulp in your tooth. Once the infected pulp is removed, your tooth is filled with permanent filling, sealed up, and will look just like normal.

If you delay treatment and fail to get a root canal when necessary your tooth can die. This can lead to the need for removal of your natural tooth. You’ll have to remove the dead tooth due to the risks it poses for both your dental and oral health. Removing your tooth can help maintain the integrity of your remaining natural teeth as they can be impacted by an infected tooth.

Los Angeles EndodontistIf you are concerned about tooth decay and need treatment right away, contact the team at Martin Endodontics. Their team is focused on putting you first and ensuring that you leave with a healthier smile. They are skilled in a variety of treatment options, including root canals. Contact the best Los Angeles endodontist today for an appointment!