Professor . Raafat Tamam, consultant and professor of oral and dental surgery at Assiut University, talks about dental nerves: everything you want to know about its symptoms and treatment.

Dental nerve: everything you want to know about its symptoms and treatment
What is a dental nerve?

The dental nerve is a collection of nerve fibers and blood vessels located inside the tooth known as the pulp. The dental nerve gives the tooth its sensation of pain, heat, and cold.

What are the symptoms of dental nerve infection?

Severe tooth pain that may last for days or weeks.
Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold foods and drinks.
Pain when chewing food.
Tooth discolouration.
Swollen gums around the tooth.
Gum abscess.
What are the causes of dental nerve inflammation?

Caries: It is the most common cause of tooth nerve inflammation. When decay bacteria are left untreated, they can damage tooth enamel and dentin and reach the pulp, leading to inflammation of the tooth nerve.
Fractured or cracked tooth: A broken or cracked tooth can damage the pulp, leading to inflammation of the dental nerve.
Old fillings: Old fillings can leak and allow bacteria to reach the pulp, leading to inflammation of the dental nerve.
Gum disease: Gum disease can erode the bone around the tooth, which can compromise the pulp and cause inflammation of the dental nerve.
What are the methods of treating dental nerve infection?

Root canal treatment: It is the most common treatment for dental nerve inflammation. The inflamed pulp is removed from the tooth, the root canal is cleaned and shaped, and then filled with a filling material.
Tooth extraction: Tooth extraction may be necessary if neuritis is severe or if the tooth is severely damaged.
Tests and diagnosis: The dentist may request some tests and diagnosis before starting treatment for dental nerve infection.
What are the tips to prevent dental nerve infection?

Maintain oral hygiene: You should brush your teeth twice a day and use dental floss once a day.
Regular visits to the dentist: You must visit the dentist regularly for examinations and teeth cleaning.
Avoid sugary foods and drinks: Sugary foods and drinks can lead to tooth decay, which may lead to inflammation of the dental nerve.
Treating gum disease: Gum disease must be treated quickly to prevent it from causing inflammation of the dental nerve