Ways to Tell Your Tooth is Dying and Needs Immediate Treatment
Posted on 10/15/2025 by Masci & Hale Advanced Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry |
 Our teeth are incredibly resilient, but they're not invincible. Sometimes, despite our best efforts at oral care, a tooth can start to die. This is a serious problem that needs immediate attention, as a dying tooth can cause pain, infection, and even the loss of the tooth.
So, how can you tell if your tooth is dying? Here are some key signs to watch out for:
1. Persistent Toothache: A persistent toothache is perhaps the most obvious sign of a dying tooth. The pain may be sharp, throbbing, or dull, and it may come and go, or be constant. The pain may increase when you bite down or apply pressure to the tooth.
2. Sensitivity to Temperature: If your tooth becomes extremely sensitive to hot or cold, even for a brief period, it could be a sign of pulp damage, indicating the tooth is dying.
3. Discoloration: A dying tooth may change color, becoming darker or grayer as the pulp inside the tooth dies and decomposes.
4. Swelling and Tenderness: Swelling and tenderness in the gums around the affected tooth, or even in the jaw or face, could be a sign of an infection caused by the dying tooth.
5. Loose Tooth: If your tooth feels loose or movable, it could be a sign that the infection has weakened the surrounding bone and ligaments supporting the tooth.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Tooth is Dying
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a dentist right away. Ignoring a dying tooth can lead to serious complications, including an abscess (a pus-filled pocket of infection), widespread infection throughout the jaw and face, and even bone loss.
Your dentist will perform a thorough examination and take X-rays to assess the health of your tooth. Depending on the severity of the situation, there are two main treatment options:
1. Root Canal: If the pulp is still living or only partially infected, a root canal may be an option. This procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the inside of the tooth, and filling it with a special material. Once completed, the tooth can often be restored with a crown to protect it.
2. Tooth Extraction: If the infection is too severe or the tooth is too damaged, it may need to be extracted. After extraction, you may need to consider replacing the tooth with a dental implant, bridge, or partial denture to restore chewing function and prevent future problems.
Taking Care of Your Teeth
While a dying tooth can’t be saved through proper oral care, good brushing and flossing practices can help prevent other teeth from experiencing the same fate. Maintaining your regularly scheduled dental checkups is also critical for the early detection and treatment of any problems. Remember, even the sturdiest tooth needs attention. With proper care and vigilance, you can keep your smile bright and healthy for years to come.
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