Pulp cavity: What’s at the crux?

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Have you ever wondered what’s inside your tooth? Our tooth is a complex structure composed of many layers, and it isn’t solid all the way through. At the crux of your tooth, you will find pulp cavity, which is filled with a jelly-like material called tooth pulp.

The outermost layer of your tooth is called tooth enamel, the layer below that is known as dentin, which protects the inner pulp. The center of your tooth would be your tooth pulp which sits in your pulp cavity. The innermost part of your tooth is a hard layer called cementum that coats and protects the root of your tooth underneath your gum.

Functions of the tooth pulp

The outer layers of your tooth are meant to protect your pulp cavity. This pulp cavity contains a bunch of nerves, connective tissues, specialized cells, and blood vessels. The primary function of the tooth pulp is to create dentin and protect your tooth. It also provides your tooth with essential nutrients and moisture.

However, if you have a tooth decay or cavity, it eats into your outer layers, exposing your pulp and risking infection, pain, and further damage. This would then require a professional cleaning and treatment.

What is pulp chamber?

The tooth pulp present within your pulp cavity is made up of two parts:

  • The pulp chambers

  • Root canal.

In simple terms, the pulp chamber, as the name suggests, is the cave-like, hollow space in the center or crown of your tooth, whereas the root canal is the portion that extends downwards towards the root of your tooth.

Types of issues with pulp cavity and Symptoms

When you experience any problems with your pulp cavity, the symptoms can vary depending on the severity and type of condition. Some of the most common problems when it comes to pulp cavity or tooth pulp are mentioned below:

Pulpitis–

This is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the tooth pulp due to various reasons from tooth decay and injury to invasive dental procedures.

Pulp Necrosis–

It is the final stage of pulpitis and is often an irreversible one. This is when the pulp inside your pulp cavity is dead.

Dental pulp calcification–

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this is a condition wherein hard lumps of calcium, also known as dental pulp stones, are formed in your tooth pulp. This condition doesn’t typically have any symptoms, but it may cause problems if you’re having a root canal procedure.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

  • Extreme sensitivity when eating hot or cold foods

  • Increased sensitivity to sweets

  • Inflammation

  • Fever

  • Bad breath

  • Dental Abscess

  • Swelling around cheek

  • Foul taste in the mouth

  • Inflamed sores on gums.

Ways to prevent problems with tooth pulp

Keeping tooth decay and cavities at bay is the most effective way to prevent pulpitis. And to do that, practicing good oral hygiene is paramount.

  1. Using a fluoride toothpaste is good start. Remember to also rinse your mouth with a good anti-bacterial mouthwash.

  2. Brush your teeth twice a day. Using an electric toothbrush will help you clean your teeth effectively. Use Oral-B’s Vitality Series Electric Toothbrush, which comes with a round head that oscillates and rotates around your teeth, providing comprehensive cleaning. It also has an embedded 2-minute timer that makes sure you clean for just the right amount of time.

  3. Drink water frequently, especially after eating your meals.

  4. Consider flossing your teeth daily, at least once. Oral-B’s Essential Mint Dental Floss is a good fix as it comes with a mint-flavored coating and shred-resistant technology.

  5. Make sure you visit your dentist regularly for timely cleaning and check-ups.

Your tooth pulp is a delicate portion of your tooth, and while there are tough layers that are meant for its protection, decay and cavities can easily cause damage. Therefore, it is important to adhere to proper oral hygiene practices.