What should I do about chronic pulpitis?
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
The patient has chronic pulpitis, which typically requires localized dental treatment. Chronic pulpitis may present with a history of spontaneous pain, pain triggered by thermal stimuli (cold or heat), and nocturnal pain; however, the pain is generally not severe. For patients with chronic pulpitis, either pulp devitalization or pulpectomy is performed. Initially, local anesthesia is required—lidocaine or procaine may be used.
Patients suffering from toothache often experience excruciating pain—so severe that it feels unbearable. Pulpitis, particularly, is one of the most painful dental conditions currently encountered. When it flares up, the pain may radiate to the head, causing significant distress. It is essential to identify an appropriate treatment for pulpitis to effectively alleviate symptoms. So, what should be done for chronic pulpitis?
Management of Chronic Pulpitis
Patients diagnosed with chronic pulpitis typically require localized dental treatment. Chronic pulpitis may present with spontaneous pain—or a history of spontaneous pain, pain triggered by thermal stimuli (hot or cold), and nocturnal pain—though the intensity is generally less severe than in acute cases. Treatment options for chronic pulpitis include devitalization therapy or pulpectomy. Initially, local anesthesia is administered using agents such as lidocaine or procaine. Following pulpotomy, a devitalizing agent is applied to inactivate the dental pulp nerve. Commonly used agents include metallic arsenic or arsenic-free devitalizers, which effectively eliminate nerve activity and relieve pain.
Patients with chronic pulpitis should avoid consuming irritant foods—including those that are hot, cold, acidic, or sweet—as these can exacerbate pulpitis and trigger inflammation in adjacent tissues. In such cases, blood vessels within the pulp become dilated and engorged with blood, accompanied by serous exudate and inflammatory edema. Consequently, dentinal sensitivity increases markedly; even strong dietary stimuli can provoke intense pain. Patients should also avoid meat, spicy, and salty foods, since during active pulpitis, the pulp chamber and periapical tissues are swollen and exhibit accelerated blood circulation. In daily life, hard or crunchy foods should be avoided, as they may cause excessive friction and trauma to the periodontal and gingival tissues, thereby worsening tooth pain.
When symptoms of pulpitis appear, patients should seek prompt medical attention to prevent progression to more serious complications. We hope this information proves helpful.
