Why do teeth become infected?
Each tooth has a system of blood vessels and nerves inside it called the pulp. The pulp extends from the crown (visible portion of tooth) to the tip of the root. If the tooth is badly damaged, bacteria enter the pulp causing the tissue to become inflamed or infected.
The tooth may become infected if there is:
- a breakdown of a filling or crown
- Physical trauma to the tooth (such as from an injury)
- a deep cavity
- gum disease
- a crack or chip
- extreme wear
- extensive dental work to the tooth
If a tooth is badly damaged the pulp tissue inside becomes infected.