After determining that the nerve is in fact inflamed from infection, we will open the tooth similar to doing a filling, but we continue into the nerve and under local anesthetic, remove the pulp with small files. The walls of the pulp chamber are then cleaned and disinfected and sealer with a medicated rubbery material to close off the tip of the pulp.
At our office, you will most likely leave with a medication and a long-term temporary filling. Once we know the tooth has quieted down, we will rebuild the tooth and typically place a crown on top of the tooth to protect it from further infection or breakage. When a tooth loses its nerve and blood supply, it will frequently turn dark and become brittle. For this reason, we restore the tooth and protect it from reinfection.