Pulpitis

Overview

Pulpitis is inflammation of the dental pulp, most often caused by bacterial infection from deep caries, and can also result from dental trauma or periodontal disease. It typically presents with spontaneous, paroxysmal severe toothache that worsens at night and can be triggered or aggravated by hot or cold stimuli.

Symptoms

• Spontaneous severe pain
• Nocturnal pain
• Pain on hot and cold stimuli
• Radiating pain

Treatment

Relieve pain by opening the pulp chamber for drainage, then perform root canal therapy to remove the infected pulp and seal the canal, preserving the tooth.

Dietary advice

Eat warm soft foods during treatment, avoid overly cold, hot, or hard foods, and keep the mouth clean.