Pulp Necrosis
The death of the dental pulp tissue, resulting in cessation of pulpal vitality and loss of physiological function.
Full Definition
Pulp necrosis is a pulpal diagnostic category in which the dental pulp has completely or partially died, typically due to untreated carious exposure, trauma, or progression from irreversible pulpitis. The necrotic pulp no longer responds to vitality tests (cold, heat, electric pulp testing) and becomes a potential reservoir for bacterial contamination leading to periapical disease. Editors must note that 'pulp necrosis' is a clinical diagnostic term and should not be freely substituted with colloquial expressions such as 'dead tooth' in clinical records. The condition may be categorised as symptomatic or asymptomatic and may or may not be associated with periapical pathology.
Usage
Usage note: Use 'pulp necrosis' as the formal diagnostic term; avoid 'dead pulp' or 'non-vital tooth' in clinical records unless house style specifically endorses such terms.
In Context
- "Pulp necrosis was confirmed by absence of response to cold testing and the presence of a draining sinus tract." — Clinical diagnosis note
- "Tooth 21 was diagnosed with pulp necrosis and asymptomatic apical periodontitis following trauma sustained six months prior." — Referral letter