What is a Dead Tooth Called?

A dead tooth is most commonly referred to as a necrotic pulp or a pulpless tooth.

Understanding a Dead Tooth

When the soft, innermost tissue inside a tooth, known as the pulp, dies, the tooth is considered "dead." The pulp is a crucial part of the tooth, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue that are vital for the tooth's health and sensation. When this nerve tissue dies, it results in what dentists call a necrotic pulp. A tooth with a dead nerve is also sometimes called a pulpless tooth, though this term is often used more specifically after a root canal procedure where the pulp has been intentionally removed. Without a living pulp, the tooth loses its vitality, becoming brittle and susceptible to further problems. If left unaddressed, the infection can progress, and the tooth will eventually fall out by itself.

Causes of a Dead Tooth

A tooth can "die" for several reasons, primarily due to:

Deep Decay: Untreated cavities can progress, allowing bacteria to penetrate through the protective enamel and dentin layers, eventually reaching and infecting the pulp.
Trauma: A direct impact or blow to a tooth can sever the blood supply to the pulp, leading to its death, even if the tooth itself appears to be visually intact.
Cracked or Chipped Tooth: Fractures or chips in a tooth, especially those extending deep, can expose the pulp to oral bacteria, resulting in infection and necrosis.
Repeated Dental Procedures: While essential, multiple or extensive dental treatments on the same tooth over time can sometimes stress the pulp, leading to its eventual demise.

Symptoms of a Dead Tooth

Identifying a dead tooth can sometimes be challenging as symptoms vary from intense pain to no pain at all. Common indicators include:

Severe Pain: Initially, there might be sharp, persistent pain, though some dead teeth may cause no pain once the nerve has completely died.
Tooth Discoloration: A dead tooth often changes color, appearing darker than surrounding healthy teeth. It might look grey, black, or yellowish-brown.
Swelling: An infection can lead to an abscess forming at the root of the dead tooth, causing swelling in the gums, jaw, or face.
Bad Taste or Odor: An active infection associated with a dead tooth can cause a persistent foul taste in the mouth or bad breath.
Pimple-like Bump on Gums: A "fistula" or gum boil may appear on the gums near the affected tooth, indicating an abscess is draining pus.

Diagnosis of a Dead Tooth

A dental professional can accurately diagnose a dead tooth through:

Clinical Examination: A visual inspection for discoloration, swelling, or other visible signs of infection.
Pulp Vitality Tests: Using cold or electric pulp tests to assess the nerve's response. A healthy tooth will react, while a dead tooth will not.
Dental X-rays: To identify signs of infection around the root of the tooth (such as periapical radiolucency) or internal resorption.

Treatment Options for a Dead Tooth

It is crucial to seek prompt dental attention for a dead tooth to prevent the spread of infection and preserve overall oral health. The primary treatment options include:

Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics): This procedure involves removing the dead or infected pulp, thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and then filling and sealing it. A dental crown is often placed afterward to protect the weakened tooth. This allows the natural tooth to be preserved.
Extraction: If the tooth is too severely damaged or infected to be saved with a root canal, extraction may be necessary. After extraction, options such as dental implants, bridges, or partial dentures can replace the missing tooth.

Complications if Untreated

Ignoring a dead tooth can lead to serious health issues:

Dental Abscess: A painful pocket of pus forms at the tip of the tooth root due to bacterial infection, which can spread to other areas of the face or neck.
Spread of Infection: The infection can spread to surrounding bone and soft tissues, potentially leading to conditions like cellulitis or, in rare cases, more severe systemic infections.
Bone Loss: Chronic infection can erode the jawbone that supports the affected tooth.
Tooth Loss: As the infection and bone destruction progress, if left untreated, the tooth will eventually fall out by itself.

Prevention

While not all cases are preventable, you can significantly reduce your risk of a dead tooth by:

Maintaining Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush twice daily and floss once daily to prevent deep decay.
Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly to allow for early identification and treatment of cavities and other issues.
Wearing a Mouthguard: Use a mouthguard during sports or if you grind your teeth to protect them from trauma.
Avoiding Chewing Hard Objects: Refrain from chewing on ice, pens, or other hard objects that can cause cracks or chips in your teeth.

Table Summary: Dead Tooth Overview

Aspect	Description
Common Names	Necrotic Pulp, Pulpless Tooth
Primary Causes	Deep decay, dental trauma, cracks, repeated dental work
Key Symptoms	Discoloration (grey/black), severe pain (or no pain), swelling, bad taste, gum boil
Diagnosis Methods	Clinical exam, pulp vitality tests, X-rays
Main Treatments	Root canal treatment (to save the tooth), Extraction (if tooth cannot be saved)
Untreated Risks	Abscess formation, spread of infection, bone loss, eventual tooth loss