Gangrene of the tooth - symptoms, treatment, prevention

Dental pulp - what is it and what are its functions?

A pulp de la tooth est une tissue de vie situat dans la tooth qui. A is to provide the tooth with nutrients and oxygen, necessary to maintain the health and functionality of the tooth. The pulp of the tooth consists of nerves, blood vessels and cells that help to receive stimuli and protect the tooth from mechanical damage.

The pulp also plays an important role in the process of mineralization of the tooth, that is, in the formation and maintenance of its structure. In the process of mineralization, the pulp produces a new tooth tissue, which replaces the destroyed or worn parts.

In the case of infection or trauma to the tooth, the pulp can be damaged, which leads to severe pain and inflammation. The so-called gangrene of the tooth is formed. In such a situation, dental treatment is necessary, which may consist in removing the pulp and filling the root canals to prevent further infection and preserve the functionality of the tooth.

Causes of dental gangrene

Gangrene of the tooth can arise as a result of many factors. The most common cause is advanced caries, which causes cavities in the enamel and allows bacteria to enter the inside of the tooth. Other factors that favor the formation of dental gangrene are:

• Mechanical damage Injuries to the tooth, such as cracks or fractures, can lead to damage to the pulp of the tooth and cause inflammation.
• Endodontic treatment — improperly performed root canal treatment can lead to infection and gangrene of the tooth.
• Hygienic Negligence — a lack of proper oral hygiene and regular visits to the dentist can lead to the development of caries and, consequently, to gangrene of the tooth.
• Diabetes People with diabetes are more likely to develop bacterial infections, including dental infections and dental gangrene.
• Decreased immunity People with weakened immunity are more likely to develop bacterial infections that can lead to dental gangrene.

Tooth gangrene after root canal treatment

In some cases, despite carrying out root canal treatment, gangrene of the tooth may develop. A causa is usually imperfections in the root canal treatment process, such as incorrect cleaning of the root canals, improper canal filling, or incorrect removal of infected tissue. In addition, the formation of dental gangrene after root canal treatment is promoted by incorrect filling of cavities and lack of control over the condition of the teeth after the end of treatment.

Types of dental gangrene

Gangrene of the tooth can have different forms, depending on the area and degree of damage to the pulp of the tooth. Three main types of dental gangrene are distinguished:

• Necrosis — occurs when the pulp of the tooth completely dies off, and bacteria and dead tissue accumulate in the root cavity. It is characterized by severe pain, redness, swelling, and purulent discharge from the gum.
• Dry form — the pulp of the tooth gradually dies off, but the root cavity is not occupied by bacteria. There are no pain symptoms, but the tooth is weakened and more easily damaged.
• Moist form — partial necrosis of the pulp with the presence of bacteria in the root cavity. It causes pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes also purulent discharge from the gum.

Symptoms of dental gangrene

Symptoms of dental pulpitis that may indicate gangrene include:

• Severe toothache (sharp, stabbing or throbbing, intensifying when biting or drinking hot and cold liquids)
• Sensitivity to hot and cold
• Swelling and redness of the gums
• Purulent discharge from the gum
• Change in the color of the tooth (gray, dark or red)
• Unpleasant taste and smell in the mouth

Can gangrene of the tooth be seen on the X-ray?

On the X-ray, you can notice some symptoms of dental gangrene, but this is not always possible. A, a X-ray,,.

Treatment of gangrene of the tooth

Treating dental gangrene depends on the type and severity of the condition. In the case of necrotic gangrene, it is usually necessary to remove the affected tooth, while in the case of wet or dry gangrene, it is possible to preserve the tooth through root canal treatment. The general course of treatment of dental gangrene includes:

1. Diagnostics — examination of the tooth, X-ray and possibly microscopic examination of the pulp of the tooth to determine the type and stage of gangrene.
2. Drug treatment — To reduce inflammation and pain, the dentist may prescribe painkillers, anti-inflammatories and antibiotics.
3. Root canal treatment — in the case of wet or dry gangrene, it consists in removing dead or diseased pulp from the tooth and then filling the root canals with a special material.
4. Tooth removal - in the case of advanced necrotic gangrene, when the tooth is already dead and there is no possibility to save the pulp, it is necessary to remove the affected tooth.
5. Prosthetics — after tooth extraction, it may be necessary to perform a dental prosthesis to restore the function of the bite and the aesthetics of the smile.

Root canal treatment or extraction?

The choice between root canal treatment and tooth extraction depends on the stage of the disease and the individual needs and preferences of the patient. Root canal treatment is effective for wet and dry gangrene, when the tooth is stable and has enough healthy tissue. This allows you to preserve the natural dentition, which is important for chewing function and aesthetics.

Extraction of the tooth, that is, its removal, is necessary for advanced necrotic gangrene, when there is no possibility to save the pulp. This is a more invasive procedure that may require the subsequent use of implants or prosthetic bridges.

A final decision should be made by the patient in cooperation with the dentist.

Complications of untreated dental gangrene

If left untreated, dental gangrene can lead to serious complications and health risks, such as:

• Infections that can spread to other parts of the body (throat, nasal cavities, and even the brain)
• Severe, chronic pain
• Tooth loss
• Inflammation of periapical tissues, leading to loss of bone and ground for other teeth
• Sepsis — in extreme cases, when the infection spreads throughout the body

How to prevent the formation of gangrene in the teeth?

For the effective prevention of dental gangrene, it is worth adhering to several rules:

• Gestire la hygienica orale: la borsa normale doppia doppia doppia, l'uso di floss dentale e fluidi antibacteriali, e visitare regulare al dentista.
• Limiting the consumption of sweets and acidic drinks that promote the development of caries.
• Restriction of smoking and drinking alcohol, which weakens immunity.
• Avoiding injuries within the teeth.
• A regular dental examination and carrying out prescribed examinations such as x-rays.

Are home remedies effective for dental gangrene?

With gangrene of the tooth, treatment with home remedies is not recommended. Gangrene is a serious condition that requires the intervention of a dentist. Home methods can only relieve pain symptoms, but they are not able to cure gangrene. If you suspect dental gangrene, contact your dentist as soon as possible, who will conduct appropriate examinations and implement effective treatment - most often root canal treatment or, in extreme cases, tooth extraction.

Recall: A quick response and professional treatment are the key to the health of your teeth and the whole body!