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Pulp Necrosis

Death of the dental pulp tissue, often progressing from untreated infection or trauma.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department. Book Appointment →

What is Pulp Necrosis?

Pulp necrosis is the end stage of irreversible pulpitis, in which the soft tissue inside the tooth (containing nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue) loses vitality. It is most often caused by deep caries reaching the pulp, dental trauma (luxation, intrusion), repeated restorations, cracked tooth syndrome, or periodontal infection.

Once necrosis occurs, bacteria colonize the canal system and can spread to the periapical tissues, leading to apical periodontitis, abscess, sinus tract formation, cellulitis, or rarely deep neck space infection.

Diagnosis is based on history, lack of response to thermal and electric pulp testing, percussion sensitivity, and radiographic evidence of periapical changes. Endodontic treatment (root canal therapy) or extraction is required.

Symptoms

History of severe toothache that suddenly resolved
Tooth discoloration (gray, brown, yellow)
No response to cold or electric pulp testing
Pain on chewing or percussion
Swelling or sinus tract on the gum
Bad taste from infected canal drainage
Possible asymptomatic course

Risk Factors

Untreated deep caries
Dental trauma (sports, falls, accidents)
Cracked tooth or fracture
Multiple repeated restorations on the same tooth
Severe periodontal disease
Bruxism and excessive tooth wear
Iatrogenic damage during dental procedures

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent dental pain that has resolved
  • Tooth discoloration
  • Visible swelling or sinus tract on gums
  • Pain on chewing on a previously painful tooth
  • Bad taste localized to one tooth
  • Following recent dental trauma

Treatment Methods

01
Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy)
02
Extraction if tooth is non-restorable
03
Antibiotics for systemic infection or cellulitis
04
Apexification or regenerative endodontics for immature teeth
05
Internal bleaching after endodontic therapy for discoloration
06
Crown restoration after root canal completion
07
Treatment of underlying caries or periodontal disease

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Ağız ve Diş Sağlığı Department

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Diş çürüğü, ağız bakterilerinin şekeri fermente ederek ürettiği asitlerin diş minesi, dentin ve pulpayı tahrip etmesiyle oluşan kronik bir hastalıktır.

Diş Eti Hastalıkları (Periodontal Hastalıklar)

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Periodontal hastalıklar, diş eti (gingivit) ve diş çevresindeki kemik ile bağ dokusunun (periodontit) bakteri kaynaklı iltihabıdır; tedavi edilmezse diş kaybına neden olur.

Impacted Tooth

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An impacted tooth — most often a wisdom tooth — has not erupted fully and remains in the jaw bone or gum. It can lead to pericoronitis, caries and cysts.

Dental Implants

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A dental implant is a titanium screw placed in the jawbone that supports a crown, bridge or denture, providing the closest possible function and aesthetics to a natural tooth.

Teeth Whitening

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Teeth whitening lightens tooth color using hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels. In-office (professional) bleaching uses higher concentrations with light activation for faster results; home bleaching uses custom trays with lower concentrations over 1–4 weeks. Safety depends on healthy teeth, correct concentration, isolation of gums and transient sensitivity management.

Orthodontics

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Orthodontics is the dental specialty that corrects the alignment of the teeth and jaws, providing both aesthetic and functional benefits at any age, from childhood through adulthood.

Gingival Recession (Gum Recession)

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Gingival recession is the apical displacement of the gingival margin with exposure of the root surface. It may be localized or generalized and results from mechanical trauma, periodontal disease, thin biotype or anatomic factors. Recession can cause root sensitivity, caries and aesthetic concerns; management includes cause elimination and surgical root coverage when indicated.

Bad Breath (Halitosis)

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Halitosis is a chronic problem that affects a substantial part of the population. It is most often of oral origin and can interfere with social interactions.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.