What Is a Dead Tooth?

The idea of having a dead tooth in your mouth may seem rather macabre. But instead of being the premise for a horror movie, it’s a relatively common condition affecting more than 15 million people every year. If you nevertheless find the description somewhat unsettling, it’s also known as a non-vital tooth.

Although we usually don’t think of teeth as being “alive,” the pulp of each tooth contains nerve tissue and blood vessels. The pulp extends from the crowns of the teeth to the tips of their roots. Like all living tissue, the pulp can be damaged, thereby disrupting the blood flow to the tooth. Depending upon the cause, blood flow may be able to be restored if the damage is treated in time. Should this not be possible, the tooth may be treated by a root canal procedure, or in the case of extreme damage, require extraction.

Reasons Why a Tooth Can Die

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

Trauma — Injuries occurring in contact sports, physical fitness/sports activities involving equipment used close to the lower face, falls, vehicular accidents and acts of physical assault are typical causes of dental trauma.

For this reason, wearing a mouthguard is a proactive way to protect your mouth while playing contact sports. If you or your child are on an organized team, its use is most likely required. Our blog post - “Six Reasons Why Adults and Youngsters Need to Wear a Mouthguard for Contact Sports” - covers this topic in detail.

As Colgate points out, an injured tooth may be cracked, allowing bacteria to access the pulp, which can become infected and die. In cases of injury, calling your dentist for an emergency appointment (assuming you have no additional injury requiring immediate medical attention, or after you’ve received emergency treatment) could help reestablish blood flow in time to save the tooth. Your dentist may also prescribe an antibiotic to prevent infection. NK Family Dental can accommodate same-day emergency appointments, as well as provide support for after-hours emergencies.

Decay — Poor oral hygiene sets up the conditions for tooth decay, which - if left untreated - will work its way into the pulp of the tooth. This leads to the pulp becoming infected, thus cutting off blood to the pulp and causing it to die. For those who are consistent in their oral care regimen and visit their dentist for regular six-month examinations and cleanings, this is typically not a factor. However, people who have dentophobia - a true phobia in which the idea or anticipation of going to the dentist leads to a fearful response - will avoid seeing a dentist even when their neglect of oral health results in advanced tooth decay, periodontal disease or a potentially life-threatening infection. Ironically, such behavior results in more extensive treatment eventually being necessary - that is, the worst-case-scenario the patient so greatly feared becoming reality because the course of decay or disease has progressed too far.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) recognizes dentophobia as a specific phobic disorder in its Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). Our blog post - “Dealing With Dental Anxiety” - describes this condition in greater detail.

Signs of a Dead Tooth

Although pain can be an indication of a non-vital tooth, some people experience no pain, and are unaware that their tooth has died. Others may experience mild or intense pain, sensitivity to hot or cold foods, or while chewing with the tooth.

Other signs include the following:

Discoloration — One of the most common indicators of a dead tooth is a change in color from the surrounding teeth. As the blood supply is disrupted and the tooth begins to die, it may become gray, yellow, brown or even black, if left untreated for too long.

Bad breath — Persistent bad breath – also called halitosis – has several causes. A dead tooth is among them. It may also be accompanied by a foul taste in the mouth.

Swelling or an abscess — It isn’t unusual for an infection to accompany a dying tooth. The infection might include swelling in the gumline around the tooth, or an abscess - a small pocket of pus - beneath the surface of the gums.

Treatment Options for a Dead Tooth

As mentioned earlier, the two treatment options for a dead tooth are a root canal procedure or extraction. Your dentist will recommend the appropriate treatment, depending upon your individual situation. In general, a root canal may be recommended if there is no damage to the tooth structure. If the tooth is cracked or otherwise damaged beyond repair, an extraction will be performed.

Despite the scary reputation of root canal treatments, medical advancements have made the procedure much faster, and painless when performed by an experienced, skilled dentist or endodontist. As our blog post - “What to Know About a Root Canal” - describes, root canal treatment is designed to eliminate bacteria from the infected root canal, prevent reinfection of the tooth and save the natural tooth. During a root canal, the inflamed or infected pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is carefully cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed.

A root canal leaves the tooth structure intact, but because the tooth is non-viable, it eventually becomes brittle and fragile - which is why the final step in the procedure is to place a crown over the tooth. This restoration gives the tooth strength and protection so it functions just as before. Crowning also provides an aesthetic benefit, as the tooth may become discolored - even if it had not been prior to treatment.

If the tooth must be extracted, your dentist will recommend options for replacement after the extraction site heals. Depending upon your situation, a dental bridge or implant may be recommended. Most dentists will encourage you to replace the missing tooth for the following reasons, even if the resulting gap isn’t visible when smiling or speaking:

To maintain proper chewing function - which affects overall health.
To prevent surrounding teeth from moving toward the gap, thereby misaligning.
To maintain proper facial contours, as missing teeth create a “sunken” effect in the face.
To maintain an aesthetically pleasing smile.

The Take-Home Message

Staying on top of your oral health and preventing injury to your lower face - as well as the rest of you, of course - are the best ways to keep your teeth healthy and alive! But as we never know what circumstances may occur to result in a dead tooth, you now know the signs to alert you to make an appointment with your dentist immediately. Even if the tooth can’t be saved with a root canal, your dentist can provide a restoration that will result in perfect fit and function, and blend in seamlessly with your surrounding teeth.

Our team of experienced, dedicated dental professionals will help address your oral health concerns, and determine the best solution for you based on your individual situation. We strive to identify treatment options that fit your needs.

Our dental specialists include our general dentist, Dr. Nilofer Khan, our endodontist, Dr. Sabek, and our periodontist, Dr. Amir Danesh. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomat of the American Board of Periodontology. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!

We understand that the main concern you may have is cost, which is why we accept all major PPO plans for dental insurance and also offer our in-house dental plan. Please see our financing page for more information.

Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!

Oral Health and How It Affects Your Overall Health

Many people think of oral health as somehow separate from overall health. When you consider how we’re taught to focus on preventing cavities and periodontal (gum) disease by brushing and flossing regularly – and visiting the dentist twice a year for a cleaning and examination – it’s easy to see how this division occurs. Of course, there’s also the fact that we visit a physician for our overall health and a dentist for our oral health!

However, our teeth, gums, jawbone and related oral structures are all part of us, just as much as our organs, bones, muscles and skin. For this reason, neglecting your oral health will eventually have a detrimental effect on your overall health. According to Mayo Clinic, problems in your mouth can affect the rest of your body. “Like other areas of the body, your mouth teems with bacteria – mostly harmless. But your mouth is the entry point to your digestive and respiratory tracts, and some of these bacteria can cause disease.”

What Conditions Are Linked to Poor Oral Health?

As our blog post – “Common Dental Health Myths” – points out, there are many correlations between mouth and body. A mouth with severe tooth decay and periodontal disease (which can start with an untreated cavity, as well as a buildup of plaque) is more likely to cause bacteria to enter into the bloodstream and result in other serious health issues.

Studies have found a link between periodontal disease and heart disease, diabetes, cancer and more. Colgate and Absolute Dental provide this list of the conditions that periodontal disease can cause or exacerbate:

Heart disease – The bacteria from inflammation of gum disease can enter the bloodstream and travel to the arteries in the heart. This can lead to atherosclerosis (when plaque develops on and thickens the arteries' inner walls, decreasing blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke), and endocarditis (infection and inflammation of the inner lining of the heart).

Dementia – Gingivitis bacteria can enter the brain through nerve channels or the bloodstream, possibly leading to Alzheimer's disease.

Respiratory infections – Inhaling bacteria from infected teeth and gums over a long period could lead to infections in the lungs, as well as pneumonia.

Diabetic complications – Periodontal disease can make blood sugar difficult to control and make diabetes worse. People with diabetes are also prone to periodontal disease.

Rheumatoid arthritis – The more tooth loss due to gum disease, the higher the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

Pregnancy complications – Hormonal changes in the body during pregnancy can cause a woman to develop oral infections much more easily. Any infection in the mother’s body increases the risk of premature delivery and low birth weight. Our blog post – “What You Need to Know About Dental Care During Pregnancy” – covers many more topics of interest to expectant mothers.

Infertility – Gum disease can lead to various overall health issues that can make it more difficult for a woman to conceive and sustain a healthy pregnancy. It can take longer for a woman with poor oral health to become pregnant.

Erectile dysfunction – Bacteria from diseased gums can get into the bloodstream and cause blood vessels to become inflamed. This inflammation can block the flow of blood to the male genitals.

Cancer – Smoking or using tobacco products can lead to oral and throat cancers, but other types of cancer have also been linked to gum disease. The risk for kidney cancer, pancreatic cancer and blood cancers is much higher for those who have poor oral health.

Kidney disease – Chronic kidney disease also affects the heart, bones and blood pressure. People with gum disease generally have weaker immune systems and are more likely to develop infections. Kidney disease can be fatal if it leads to kidney failure or cardiovascular disease.

How Can I Protect My Oral Health?

As a Healthline article so succinctly puts it, “Even if you’re cavity-free and have the pearliest chompers in town, that doesn’t mean you’re immune to gum disease. Since it’s usually painless, most people have no idea that anything is wrong with their gums.” So while you may think of people who develop periodontal disease as having “bad teeth” or unhygienic habits, the progress can be well along before you notice symptoms. In other words, don’t assume you’re safe if you brush your teeth three times a day! Our blog post – “Types of Gum Disease” – covers this topic in detail, including how it starts, symptoms, risk factors, treatment and prevention.

Following a healthy lifestyle is key to achieving good overall and oral health! A poor diet is bad for both. Our blog post – “The Best And Worst Foods For A Healthy Smile” – covers the importance of a well-balanced, nutritious diet in supplying the nutrients that the body, bones, teeth and gums need to renew tissues and help fight infection and disease - including periodontal disease.

Following good oral hygiene practices is essential, and must be done consistently to be effective. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing twice daily – although once after every meal is better, as well as after a snack, if possible.

Use a soft-bristle brush.
Brush for at least two minutes, staying for 30 seconds in each quadrant of your mouth.
Floss before and after brushing to remove food particles between teeth so that plaque-causing bacteria doesn’t have the opportunity to form.
Gently scrape or brush your tongue and inside cheeks.
Use a fluoride mouthwash for 20 seconds as a final rinse.

Last, but definitely not least, your dentist is your partner in achieving and maintaining optimum health! Schedule twice-yearly examinations and cleanings – more, if your dentist advises in order to monitor a condition. Regular examinations allow the dentist to observe changes or conditions that need treatment before they become critical, and removes plaque that brushing alone can’t accomplish.

At NK Family Dental, it is our mission to provide the highest quality and most compassionate oral care to our Chicago patients, including both dental and periodontal services. Our dental specialists include our general dentist, Dr. Nilofer Khan, our endodontist, Dr. Sabek, and our periodontist, Dr. Amir Danesh. Dr. Danesh is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. He has contributed to the publication of two books, as well as published over 20 papers in prestigious dental research journals.

We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!

Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!

What You Need to Know About Dental Care During Pregnancy

As an expectant mom, you have a lot going on – not the least of which are the physical changes you’re experiencing. While you’re scheduling regular visits with your obstetrician to ensure a healthy pregnancy, be sure you also take care of your oral health during this important time!

Is it Safe to Visit the Dentist During Pregnancy?

Yes! In fact, it’s highly recommended! The American Dental Association (ADA), the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American Academy of Pediatrics all encourage women to get dental care while pregnant. A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA) concluded that it’s safe for pregnant women to undergo dental treatment, including procedures that use local anesthetics. According to the study’s lead author, Aharon Hagai, D.M.D., "[Pregnancy] is a crucial period of time in a woman’s life, and maintaining oral health is directly related to good overall health."

How Pregnancy Can Affect Your Oral Health

Even if you typically enjoy good oral health, the hormonal changes that pregnancy causes can trigger certain conditions – such as periodontal disease and tender gums that bleed easily – or make some existing conditions worse. Our blog post – “What is Periodontal Gum Disease?” – covers this topic in detail.

Not every woman experiences issues during pregnancy, but you should be aware of the following, provided by MouthHealthy – an ADA website that provides consumer information about oral health topics.

Pregnancy gingivitis – Some women develop a condition known as “pregnancy gingivitis,” an inflammation of the gums that can cause swelling and tenderness. According to WebMD, 40 percent of women will develop gingivitis sometime during their pregnancy. Your gums also may bleed a little when you brush or floss. Left untreated, gingivitis can lead to more serious forms of gum disease. Your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to prevent this.

Increased risk of tooth decay – Pregnant women may be more prone to cavities for a number of reasons. If you’re eating more carbohydrates than usual, this can cause decay. Morning sickness can increase the amount of acid your mouth is exposed to, which can eat away at the outer covering of your tooth (enamel).

Brushing twice a day and flossing once can also fall by the wayside during pregnancy for many reasons, including morning sickness, a more sensitive gag reflex, tender gums and exhaustion. It’s especially important to keep up your routine, as poor habits during pregnancy have been associated with premature delivery, intrauterine growth restriction, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.

Pregnancy tumors – In some women, overgrowths of tissue called “pregnancy tumors” appear on the gums, most often during the second trimester. It is not cancer but rather just swelling that happens most often between teeth. They may be related to excess plaque. They bleed easily and have a red, raw-looking raspberry-like appearance. They usually disappear after your baby is born, but if you are concerned, talk to your dentist about removing them.

Why You Should Visit Your Dentist During Pregnancy

Don’t skip your regular dental examination and cleaning because you’re pregnant. As an article by Dental Associates notes, “Your dentist can help discuss changes in oral health during pregnancy and what to look for. There is a connection between your health during pregnancy and your baby’s health, so visiting your dentist during pregnancy is essential.”

When you schedule your appointment, tell the receptionist or scheduler to inform the dentist that you’re pregnant – or think that you might be. If a procedure needs to be performed, tell your dentist the names and dosages of all drugs you are taking – including prenatal vitamins, as well as medications. Also mention any specific medical advice your doctor has given you, as your dental treatment plan may need to be altered.

Also be assured that X-rays can be taken with no risk to you or your baby. Your dentist or hygienist will cover you with a leaded apron that shields the abdomen, and a leaded collar to protect your thyroid. X-rays are important because they can reveal unseen oral health issues that are crucial to diagnose and treat before it affects you and your baby. Because the mouth is the gateway to the body, an infection in the mouth can spread to other parts of your body – including your baby.

Should a filling, root canal or tooth extraction be necessary, the numbing medications used during the procedure are safe. Of course, discuss any concerns you may have with your dentist.

Oral Hygiene During Pregnancy

At-home care is also essential to keeping your mouth healthy! Dental Associates offers the following tips:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. If your gums are swollen and tender due to pregnancy gingivitis, try switching to an extra soft toothbrush and brush as gently as possible. After all, it’s the brushing motions that clean teeth – not the pressure of the toothbrush.
Floss gently once a day. Swollen and tender gums during pregnancy are normal, but see your dentist if you have concerns.
Ask your dentist about an antimicrobial mouth rinse to help combat the increase of plaque.
If you have morning sickness and vomiting, rinse your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water. This will help keep stomach acids from attacking your teeth and causing decay.
Eat a diet rich with calcium, B12 and vitamin C to help keep gums healthy.

By the way, did you know that your baby’s teeth start developing between the third and sixth month of pregnancy? Although they won’t start to erupt until your baby is about six months old, they’re already forming! So by taking care of yourself through proper medical and dental care – as well as good nutrition – you’re already giving your baby a great head start toward a lifetime of good oral health.

The Take-Home Message

While you’re concerned about keeping your baby safe during pregnancy, maintaining good oral health is a very important part of this worthy objective. Keep an eye out for any changes that could indicate an issue, and make an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. Even if – hopefully – no conditions develop, continue with your regular examination and cleaning schedule.

We serve the neighborhoods of Logan Square, Bucktown, Humboldt Park, and Wicker Park with the dedication that’s earned us the reputation as the Best Dentist in Chicago!

Schedule your visit through ZocDoc, or contact us directly. We look forward to treating you soon!