Pulpitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the dental pulp (the nerve and blood vessels inside the tooth). It is one of the most painful dental conditions and is almost impossible to ignore. Inflammation of the nerve causes sharp, throbbing pain that often worsens at night and may radiate to the ear, temple, or lower jaw. Without timely treatment, pulpitis progresses quickly and can lead to serious complications.
The main symptom of pulpitis is severe tooth pain that appears suddenly and intensifies in response to hot or cold stimuli. The pain often persists even after the stimulus is removed.
Pulpitis is characterized by spontaneous, attack-like pain and a pulsating sensation inside the tooth. Symptoms usually worsen at night, which helps distinguish pulpitis from superficial tooth decay.
In advanced cases, swelling may occur, pain can spread to the jaw, and overall well-being may deteriorate.
The most common cause is deep tooth decay, which allows bacteria to penetrate the pulp chamber.
Inflammation can also develop beneath an old filling, due to a cracked tooth, or following trauma.
Pulpitis is always an infectious condition and will not resolve on its own.
At the first signs of pain, it is essential to see a dentist as soon as possible.
Painkillers provide only temporary relief and do not treat the inflammation.
The dentist removes the infected pulp, thoroughly cleans the root canals, and fills them with a biocompatible material. Delaying treatment is dangerous, as the infection can spread into the bone and cause an abscess, cyst, or significant swelling.
Inflammation progresses through several stages. Initially, the nerve is still alive and reacts strongly to stimuli. As the infection advances, pulp necrosis (nerve death) occurs.
This process may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, but throughout this time it is accompanied by pain, inflammation, and a high risk of complications. Waiting for the nerve to “die on its own” is dangerous—the infection does not disappear, it only spreads deeper into surrounding tissues.
The key difference lies in the nature of the pain.
With tooth decay or sensitivity, pain is short-lived and occurs only when exposed to a stimulus.
With pulpitis, the pain is intense, long-lasting, occurs spontaneously, and often worsens with heat.
An accurate diagnosis is made after a clinical examination, X-rays, and pulp vitality testing.
Untreated pulpitis progresses to periodontitis, where the infection spreads beyond the tooth into the surrounding bone. This can lead to abscesses, cysts, swelling, and significantly more complex and prolonged treatment.
Tooth loss is one of the most common consequences of advanced pulpitis.
If you experience severe tooth pain, night-time attacks, or sensitivity to heat, it is crucial to seek dental care as early as possible. At BioDent, we offer precise diagnostics, modern endodontic treatment, and tooth restoration using premium materials.
We use dental microscopes, rotary instruments, and safe canal preparation techniques to ensure accuracy and long-lasting results.
Book your appointment:
📞 +420 776 428 606
📍 Uruguayská 344/13, Praha 2 (Náměstí Míru)