If you have a tooth that is dying, you will more than likely have some warning signs. The sooner you get treatment for it from your dentist in De Pere, the better your chances of saving the tooth.

Symptoms of a Dying Tooth

The first symptom that usually appears is sudden sensitivity to heat or cold. This often starts to happen when a tooth has become fractured, a condition that is more common than people think. Often people are unaware that a tooth has become fractured because it can occur over time and sensitivity initially starts out mild.

Other signs that could indicate a tooth is dying include pain while chewing. This can mean that the nerve of the tooth has become damaged and has become infected. Pain might start out fairly mild, but it will eventually escalate as blood flow to the inflamed area increases.

Facial swelling can also happen and is usually an indicator that the infection has traveled into the jawbone.

A dying tooth will also start to darken, eventually turning completely black if not treated.

Causes of a Dying Tooth

There are two main reasons a tooth dies: decay or trauma.

Cavities that are not treated will continue to grow, eventually reaching the pulp of the tooth. This creates a pathway for bacteria to enter the tooth root. Although a healthy root will fight infection, it can only hold out for so long before the tooth will die.

If there is trauma to the tooth, such as a blow to the face from a sports injury, fall, or accident, the blood vessels can burst of the blood supply to the tooth can be cut off. Without blood flow to the living tissues inside the tooth root, it will eventually die.

Call Our De Pere Dental Office

Be alert to any of the warning signs of a dead tooth and visit your dentist in De Pere twice each year for routine checkups and tooth cleanings. Early treatment is essential if you want to save your tooth. Make an appointment at FoxView Dental today!