Is pulpitis contagious?
Generally, pulpitis is not contagious. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Pulpitis is primarily caused by internal dental conditions, such as deep tooth decay reaching the pulp, dental trauma exposing the pulp, or periodontal infection spreading retrogradely to the pulp. These causes are confined within individual teeth and cannot spread to others or even to other teeth through contact or droplets. The dental pulp is located inside the pulp chamber of the tooth and is surrounded by dentin and enamel. Inflammation develops only within this enclosed space and does not extend outside the body or to other teeth. Even when multiple teeth in the same mouth suffer from pulpitis, each case results from independent pathological processes rather than mutual transmission.
Once symptoms of pulpitis appear, prompt medical treatment is necessary to prevent worsening inflammation that could lead to apical periodontitis or tooth loosening. During treatment, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential: brush teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, rinse with warm water after meals, and avoid chewing hard, very cold, or hot foods on the affected tooth to minimize irritation to the pulp. If tooth pain or discomfort during biting persists after treatment, timely follow-up visits are needed to ensure complete resolution of the inflammation and to maintain long-term dental health.