A throbbing, unpleasant pain, a thick cheek and sensitive reactions to heat and cold – typical signs that the present toothache is due to an inflammation of the tooth root. The anchoring mechanism of our tooth, the root, is attacked by bacteria and the risk of losing the tooth is high. But how can the root become inflamed when it is actually well and safely protected by dentin and enamel against the outside world?
The tooth root
The root of the tooth, also known as the radix dentis, is the part of the tooth that secures it securely and firmly in the tooth socket. Without the root of the tooth, the tooth would not be secure and would fall out. Also the supply and stimulus transmission is part of their field of activity.
Only under pathological conditions would the root of the tooth be visible to the outside, but in a healthy and vital tooth, it is well hidden under the crown of the tooth and under the bone covered by the gum. The root of the tooth is made of dentin, which is surrounded by dental cement. The number of tooth roots per tooth varies and can also vary from person to person.
As a rule of thumb you can remember that the number of roots increases the further back you look in the oral cavity. Thus, an “OK 3” has one long root, a cheek tooth a little further back has 3 roots. The more, the longer and the thicker the diameter of a root, the more stable and secure it can attach the tooth.
This plays a decisive role in the planning of dental prostheses, among other things. At the tip of the tooth root there is a small opening, the Foramen apicale dentis. This is the entrance to the pulp for blood vessels, lymphatic tissue and nerves. The extensions of the pulp cavity are called root canals.
Symptoms
First and foremost, an inflammation of the tooth root manifests itself with strong unpleasant pain. The pain does not have to come directly from an inflammation of the root, but exposed tooth necks can also be responsible, which in most cases is a more manageable problem. The pain is rather subliminal throbbing and dull.
In most cases it is not limited to the area of the affected tooth, but radiates further. So an inflammation of the root of the tooth can also be the cause of headaches. The area around the root of the tooth is swollen from the outside.
One reacts sensitively to pressure and the gums can also become inflamed. Heat and cold, as a condition of food or drink, cause particular problems, as one is sensitive to them. A tooth sensitive to heat or cold should be the first sign to visit a dentist.
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