Updated on July 29, 2025.
Dead tooth sounds pretty dramatic—and with good reason! A dead tooth is a serious condition that requires prompt dental attention.
At Harlow Dental, Dr. Justin Harlow and our outstanding team help patients understand what a dead tooth is, why it happens, and how to treat it before complications develop.
What Is a Dead Tooth?
A dead tooth is exactly what it sounds like—a tooth that is no longer vital. Every healthy tooth contains a soft inner layer called the pulp, which houses blood vessels, connective tissue, and nerves. When the pulp dies, due to injury or decay, the tooth loses its blood supply and nerve function. Though the hard outer structure may still be in place, the tooth is no longer viable and can lead to serious issues if left untreated.
Importantly, even though the nerve is dead, the tooth itself can become a source of infection. Bacteria can invade the inner chamber, leading to swelling, abscesses, or even damage to nearby bone and teeth. That’s why recognizing and addressing a dead tooth early is essential.
What Causes a Dead Tooth?
There are two main culprits behind most dead teeth: traumatic injury and untreated decay. Trauma, from a sports accident, a fall, or a blow to the face, can damage the tooth’s blood vessels. If circulation is cut off, the pulp tissue inside the tooth begins to die. Even if there’s no visible damage, internal trauma can slowly lead to pulp death.
Meanwhile, when a cavity goes unchecked, it can spread through the enamel and dentin into the pulp chamber. Once bacteria reach the pulp, without treatment or preemptive root canal therapy, infection and tissue death will follow. Practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling regular checkups can help prevent this.
Signs You May Have a Dead Tooth
It isn’t always easy to tell if a tooth has died. However, common warning signs include:
- A darkened or discolored tooth (gray, black, or brown)
- Persistent bad breath or a foul taste in the mouth
- Swelling or a small pimple on the gums (possible abscess)
- Sensitivity or pain (even though the nerve is dead, infection around the tooth can still hurt)
How Is a Dead Tooth Treated?
There are two main treatment options:
- Root canal therapy — If the tooth structure can be saved, a root canal can remove the dead pulp and seal the tooth, while a crown restores strength and function.
- Tooth extraction — If the damage is too extensive or infection has spread, removal may be necessary, with a dental implant or bridge to replace the tooth.
Expert Dead Tooth Treatment in Charlotte and Steele Creek, NC
If you're in the Charlotte area and suspect a tooth is dead or dying, don’t wait. The sooner you seek treatment, the better your chances of saving the tooth and avoiding further pain and expense. Contact Dr. Justin Harlow and the expert Harlow Dental team today to schedule an appointment for diagnosis.