That bump to your mouth from a sports game or a childhood fall might seem like a distant memory, but dental trauma can have delayed effects. Sometimes, the damage to a tooth’s nerve doesn’t show up for months or even years later. Suddenly, you might notice that same tooth looking darker than its neighbors. Whether from an old injury or deep decay, a dying tooth requires professional attention to prevent infection and further complications. We’ll explore why this happens and, more importantly, what you can do about it. Understanding your options is the first step in knowing how to save a tooth that is dying.
Often, your teeth can become painful or swollen from a course of events and even change their color. Whenever this happens, it could be a sign of a dying or dead tooth. These symptoms call for quick action because you need to prevent further damage to your affected tooth and take careful measures to restore it. This article will run you through the symptoms of a dead tooth and how soon you should follow protocol to save it. Our dental and implant experts in Denver will further guide you about the safety of procedures you’ll need to follow along with a thorough consultation.
How to Tell if a Tooth Is Dying
Your teeth have three layers, namely dentin, pulp, and enamel. They receive their nerve and blood supply from the pulp and when these nerves and vessels die, this generally leads to a ‘dead tooth’. Depending on the cause, a dead tooth can have various signs and symptoms. These include:
That Unmistakable Tooth Pain
A dead nerve will not always hurt, but if it does, the pain may be severe, as in the case of a cracked or chipped tooth or an exposed tooth root.
A Change in Tooth Color
The tooth may turn grey or black within a few days after the nerve dies. If dead nerve results from physical trauma, the discolouration may occur immediately.
From Yellow to Black
When a tooth no longer receives blood from its nerves, it begins to change color. This is a clear sign that the tooth is dying or already dead. Initially, you might notice the tooth turning yellow, light brown, or gray. This discoloration can make the tooth look like a bruise that gets progressively darker over time, often ending up a dark gray or even black. The specific shade can depend on the cause; a tooth dying from decay might look different from one that suffered a traumatic injury. The bottom line is that any significant, unexplainable color change in a single tooth is a clear signal to see a professional. Our team at the Dental & Implant Centers of Colorado can assess the tooth and discuss the best course of action to restore your smile’s health and appearance.
Signs of an Infection
In some cases, a dead tooth causes the development of an abscess (infection) in the jawbone at the site of the dead root. An abscess can lead to swelling of your face and neck, drainage problems, and bone loss.
Bad Breath or a Bad Taste
If you’re dealing with persistent bad breath or a foul taste that brushing and mouthwash can’t seem to fix, it might be another sign of a dead tooth. This happens because the nerve and pulp tissue inside the tooth are decaying, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to multiply. As these bacteria break down the tissue, they release sulfur compounds, which are responsible for the unpleasant odor. According to Healthline, a dead tooth can cause both bad breath and a bad taste in your mouth. This isn’t just an embarrassing social issue; it’s a clear warning that an infection is present and likely worsening. The same internal decay that causes a bad smell can also lead to discoloration, so it’s important to see a dentist right away if you notice these symptoms.
New Sensitivity to Hot or Cold
If your tooth is dead, but there’s still some life to it, you may notice that it’s sensitive to touch, hot and cold temperatures, or even sugary foods or drinks. Your tooth might remain sensitive to hot or cold temperatures even after the hot or cold stimulus has been removed. If the tooth is completely dead — which means the nerve tissue inside has died — you might not have any symptoms at all. This is because dead nerves don’t transmit pain signals to the brain.
What Causes a Tooth to Die?
There can be several causes depending on your teeth and dental hygiene practice. Following are some of the common causes of a dead tooth:
Deep Tooth Decay
When your mouth is healthy, the area around your teeth is free of gingivitis (gum inflammation) and periodontitis (gum disease). But poor dental hygiene can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can irritate your gums, cause inflammation, and eventually lead to tooth decay or decay and death.
An Injury or Trauma
An injury to your teeth or jaw can result in a knocked-out, cracked, or chipped tooth. The nerve may die if blood flow is cut off from the pulp chamber for long enough. A dead tooth can become infected and cause abscesses, which are collections of pus at the end of the roots of the teeth or in the gums. If left untreated, abscesses can cause serious complications, including spreading the infection to other areas of your head and neck or even your brain.
Delayed Effects of an Injury
After a fall or a blow to the mouth, it’s easy to feel relieved when the initial pain fades and the tooth seems fine. However, the real damage can be unfolding silently beneath the surface. The force from the trauma can disrupt the delicate blood vessels that supply the tooth’s pulp. Without proper blood flow, the nerve can slowly begin to die over weeks or even months. This is why it’s so important to have any injured tooth checked by a dentist, even if it doesn’t hurt right away. The problem might not be immediately apparent, but the consequences can build over time, leading to discoloration and pain long after the incident.
When a tooth’s nerve dies, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to a serious infection. This infection can spread from the root into your jawbone and gums, causing a painful abscess and potentially more widespread health issues. If the tooth cannot be saved with a root canal, extraction is often necessary to protect your overall oral health. The good news is that you don’t have to live with a gap in your smile. A dental implant is a fantastic, long-term solution that looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth, restoring your confidence and ability to chew properly.
Complications from a Large Filling
If the filling is large and close to the nerve, this may cause the nerve to die and become a dead tooth. This is one of the most common causes of it.
Is a Dead Tooth Always Painful?
A dead tooth is usually painless when the blood supply is completely dead. When the tooth dies due to injury or disease, the tissues inside it break down, decompose and become infected. This causes swelling and pressure, which pushes on the tooth’s nerve and causes pain. The body also reacts to this infection with inflammation, which can cause pain in other parts of the mouth. Pain caused by it can be mild or severe, depending on its severity.
Managing Tooth Pain at Home
While you’re waiting for your dental appointment, your main goal is to manage the pain. It’s crucial to understand that these are temporary fixes, not a replacement for professional care. The idea is to reduce your discomfort and keep the problem from getting worse. Simple actions can make a huge difference in how you feel. For example, what you eat and drink can either soothe the area or make it feel much worse. Sticking to soft foods that don’t require a lot of chewing can give your tooth a much-needed rest. Treating the area gently will help keep the pain from escalating until you can get into the dentist’s chair.
Temporary Pain Relief Tips
If you’re dealing with pain from what you suspect is a dead tooth, there are a few things you can do for some immediate relief. First, try to avoid very hot drinks, as the heat can make swelling and pain worse. An over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen can also help reduce inflammation and dull the ache. Be mindful of what you eat; steer clear of hard or crunchy foods that could put pressure on the tooth and cause more damage. These steps won’t solve the underlying problem, but they can make you more comfortable while you arrange to see a dental professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Diagnosing a Dead Tooth
Figuring out if a tooth is actually dead isn’t something you can do on your own. It requires a professional evaluation from a dentist who has the right tools and expertise to see what’s happening below the surface. During a routine check-up or a specific visit for pain or discoloration, a dentist can perform tests to determine the health of the tooth’s pulp. Ignoring symptoms like a persistent ache or a darkening tooth can lead to more serious problems, including an abscess or an infection that can spread. That’s why it’s so important to schedule a visit as soon as you notice something is off. A quick diagnosis is the first step toward saving the tooth and protecting your overall oral health.
Diagnosis and Expert Advice
A dentist will typically use a few different methods to diagnose a dead tooth. The process usually starts with a visual exam to check for discoloration or signs of an injury. An X-ray is essential, as it allows the dentist to see the tooth’s root and the surrounding bone to check for an abscess or other changes that signal a problem. They might also perform a pulp vitality test, often using a cold stimulus to see if the tooth’s nerve responds. Based on these findings, our team of specialists can provide expert advice on the best course of action, whether it’s a root canal to save the tooth or another treatment.
Getting a Second Opinion
Your comfort and confidence in your treatment plan are what matter most. If extraction is recommended for a dead tooth, it’s always a good idea to get a second opinion, especially from an endodontist. These dentists are specialists in saving teeth and may offer alternative solutions, like a root canal, that could preserve your natural smile. Feeling empowered to ask questions and explore all your options is a key part of your healthcare journey. A good dental team will support you in making the most informed decision for your long-term oral health.
How Long Can You Keep a Dead Tooth?
Our expert dentists at Denver believe that if the tooth is mobile or becomes mobile due to an injury and can’t be stabilized with splinting or other treatments, it will eventually fall out. If the tooth has remained stable, however, it could stay in your mouth indefinitely, though there are several reasons why you might want to get rid of it sooner rather than later.
Risks of Delaying Treatment
Putting off a visit to the dentist for a dead tooth might seem harmless, especially if it isn’t causing you pain. However, this is one of those situations where waiting can lead to much bigger problems. The primary risk is infection. A dead tooth is essentially a sealed container for bacteria, and without treatment, that bacteria can multiply and spread. This isn’t just about losing the tooth; it’s about protecting your overall health. An untreated infection can compromise your jawbone, affect adjacent teeth, and lead to complications that are far more complex and costly to address than the initial problem. It’s crucial to view a dead tooth not as a single, isolated issue but as a potential starting point for more serious health concerns.
How Infection Can Spread
When the pulp inside your tooth dies, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to a pocket of pus, known as an abscess, forming at the tip of the tooth’s root. If you don’t get it treated, the infection won’t just stay put. It can eat away at your jawbone, damage the gums, and even spread to neighboring teeth. The problem can extend beyond your mouth, too. In serious cases, the infection can travel to your face and neck, causing significant swelling and pain. It’s essential to address the issue before it gets to this point. Our team can assess the situation and discuss all your treatment options to prevent these complications and restore your oral health.
How to Save a Dying Tooth: Your Options
Saving the Tooth with a Root Canal
Root canal treatment involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the canals, and filling and sealing them. Your first appointment at DICC, Denver, will remove the infected pulp. The root canals are cleaned and disinfected, then filled and sealed with gutta-percha. A post may need to be placed to help support the tooth. A crown is then placed to protect the tooth from fractures and restore it fully.
Placing a Crown After a Root Canal
After a root canal, the tooth is no longer vital, which can make it more brittle and prone to fracture over time. To protect it, especially a back tooth that handles a lot of chewing pressure, a dental crown is the next step. Think of the crown as a custom-fitted helmet for your tooth. It covers the entire visible surface, restoring its original strength, shape, and function. This final protective layer ensures that the tooth you worked to save can continue to serve you well for many years, blending in perfectly with the rest of your smile.
Cosmetic Options for Discoloration
A common giveaway of a dead tooth is its change in color, often turning gray or dark. While a root canal treats the underlying infection, it doesn’t fix the discoloration. For a front tooth, where appearance is a top priority, you have excellent cosmetic options. We can often use internal bleaching to lighten the tooth from the inside out. Another popular solution is a porcelain veneer, which is a thin, custom-made shell bonded to the front of the tooth. A veneer can completely mask discoloration and perfect the tooth’s shape, restoring your confidence in your smile. Our comprehensive dental services cover both restorative and cosmetic needs to give you the best possible outcome.
Removing the Tooth (Extraction)
Our dentists may also suggest tooth extraction or removal for your dead tooth. If one of your teeth is no longer functional — and it’s causing problems — our dentist might recommend removing it. Tooth replacement options include dental implants, bridges, partial dentures, or complete dentures.
Why Replacing the Tooth is Important
Leaving a gap where a tooth used to be might not seem like a big deal, but it can set off a chain reaction in your mouth. The neighboring teeth can start to drift into the empty space, disrupting your bite and alignment. This shifting can make it harder to chew properly and may even lead to jaw pain. To prevent these issues, it’s important to fill that gap. Modern solutions like dental implants are an excellent way to restore your smile’s function and appearance, providing a permanent and stable replacement that feels just like a natural tooth.
Regenerative Endodontics for Children
When a child has a dead tooth, especially one that hasn’t fully developed, the situation requires a special approach. Regenerative endodontics is a fascinating field of dentistry that aims to bring a “dead” tooth back to life. Instead of just filling the space, this procedure uses the body’s own stem cells to encourage the tooth’s root to continue growing and maturing. This process helps save the natural tooth, which is always the best outcome for maintaining proper spacing and function in a developing mouth. It’s a remarkable way to support a child’s long-term dental health.
Keeping Your Teeth Healthy and Alive
To keep your teeth and gums healthy, here are some tips that will help you avoid a dead tooth:
- Brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque, which contains bacteria.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks, which cause decay in teeth by allowing bacteria to produce acid that dissolves enamel.
- Avoid tobacco products like cigarettes and chewing tobacco, which decrease blood flow to the gums and make them more susceptible to disease.
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups on any potential problems with your teeth or gums, such as cavities or gum disease.
Practice Good Oral Hygiene
It might sound basic, but your daily habits are your first line of defense against tooth decay and gum disease, two of the main culprits behind a dead tooth. The key is consistency. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is non-negotiable because it actively removes plaque, the sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth. When left unchecked, this bacteria can lead to cavities that burrow deep into the tooth, eventually reaching the pulp and causing an infection that can kill the nerve. A solid oral hygiene routine is the foundation for keeping your teeth strong and alive for years to come.
Protect Your Teeth from Injury
Trauma is another common reason a tooth’s nerve and blood supply can be severed, leading to its death. Protecting your teeth from injury is a simple but powerful preventative step. If you play sports, wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard is essential to absorb the impact of any potential blows to the face. Similarly, if you grind your teeth at night, a nightguard can prevent the immense pressure that can cause cracks or chips. It’s also wise to break the habit of using your teeth as tools—don’t use them to open packages or chew on hard objects like ice or pens. These small precautions can prevent an accident that leads to a much bigger dental problem.
Eat a Tooth-Friendly Diet
What you eat has a direct impact on the health of your teeth. Sugary foods and drinks are particularly harmful because they feed the bacteria in your mouth, which then produce acid that erodes your tooth enamel. This erosion is the first step toward tooth decay. By limiting your intake of sugar, you starve this harmful bacteria. Instead, focus on a balanced diet full of vitamins and minerals that support strong teeth and healthy gums. A tooth-friendly diet is a crucial part of a holistic approach to dental wellness, helping you maintain a healthy smile from the inside out.
Schedule Regular Dental Check-ups
Even with the best at-home care, nothing replaces the expert eye of a dentist. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital for catching potential problems before they escalate. During these visits, your dentist can identify early signs of decay or gum disease that could eventually threaten the life of a tooth. At Dental & Implant Centers of Colorado, our team uses thorough examinations to ensure your teeth are healthy and address any concerns immediately. Making time for these appointments allows us to provide the preventative care you need to keep your natural teeth healthy and avoid the need for more complex treatments down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
If my tooth doesn’t hurt, is it really a big deal to leave it alone? Even if a dead tooth is painless, it’s important to have it treated. The absence of pain often means the nerve inside has died, but the empty space can become a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to a silent infection, or abscess, that can damage your jawbone and spread to neighboring teeth without you realizing it until the problem becomes much more serious.
My tooth turned dark years after an old injury. Why did it take so long to change color? This is a common delayed reaction to dental trauma. The initial impact might not have been enough to kill the tooth’s nerve right away, but it could have damaged the blood supply. Over months or even years, the reduced blood flow can cause the nerve and pulp tissue to slowly die. The dark discoloration you see is the result of the blood cells breaking down inside the tooth, much like how a bruise develops and changes color over time.
Will a root canal fix the dark color of my tooth? A root canal is a fantastic procedure for saving the tooth by removing the infection, but it doesn’t reverse the discoloration that has already occurred. After the root canal secures the tooth’s health, we can address its appearance. For a front tooth, we often recommend cosmetic solutions like internal bleaching or placing a porcelain veneer to restore its natural, bright appearance so it blends seamlessly with your smile.
Is extraction my only option if a root canal can’t save the tooth? If a tooth is too damaged to be saved with a root canal, then yes, extraction is the necessary next step to protect your overall oral health from infection. However, that doesn’t mean you have to live with a gap. We strongly recommend replacing the tooth to prevent other teeth from shifting. A dental implant is an excellent, long-term solution that functions and feels just like a natural tooth, preserving your bite and your confidence.
How can I tell the difference between normal sensitivity and a sign my tooth is dying? Normal sensitivity to hot or cold is usually brief and goes away as soon as the food or drink is gone. The sensitivity that signals a dying tooth is different—it’s often a sharp, intense pain that lingers long after you’ve finished eating or drinking. You might also experience a spontaneous, throbbing ache. If you notice any new, severe, or lasting sensitivity, it’s a clear sign to schedule a dental visit for a proper diagnosis.
Key Takeaways
- Listen to Your Tooth’s Warning Signs: A single tooth that darkens, a persistent ache, or new sensitivity are clear indicators that the nerve is in trouble. These symptoms are your cue to schedule a professional evaluation right away.
- Don’t Delay Treatment, Even Without Pain: An untreated dead tooth can become a source of infection that may spread to your jawbone and surrounding teeth. Addressing it quickly is essential for protecting your overall health.
- You Have Great Options to Restore Your Smile: Whether saving the tooth with a root canal or replacing it with a dental implant, there are effective, long-term solutions. A dentist can help you decide on the best path to maintain a healthy, functional smile.
