When a Tooth Nerve Becomes Infected (Root Canal)

When a Tooth Nerve Becomes Infected

When a tooth nerve becomes infected, it’s not something that can heal on its own. This type of infection occurs deep inside the tooth — an area that brushing, flossing, or antibiotics alone cannot reach.

Inside every tooth is soft tissue called the pulp, which contains nerves and blood vessels. When bacteria enter this space due to deep decay, trauma, or a cracked tooth, the nerve becomes inflamed and infected. This is when a root canal is needed.

The Iceberg Analogy

In the video, the doctor compares an infected tooth to an iceberg — and it’s a helpful way to understand what’s really happening.

What you feel on the surface — pain, sensitivity, or pressure — is only a small part of the problem.

Below the surface, hidden within the tooth and surrounding bone, there may be:

• Active infection 

• Bacterial buildup 

• Inflammation around the root 

Just like an iceberg, most of the damage is beneath what you can see.

This is why tooth pain can come and go — or even disappear — while the infection continues to spread underneath.

What a Root Canal Actually Treats

A root canal does not remove the tooth. Instead, it removes the infected nerve tissue from inside the roots of the tooth.

During treatment, the dentist:

• Carefully removes the infected pulp 

• Cleans and disinfects the root canals 

• Shapes the canals to prepare them for sealing 

The goal is to eliminate bacteria and prevent future infection.

The Wine Cork Comparison

Once the tooth is cleaned, it must be sealed properly.

The doctor compares this step to placing a cork in a wine bottle.

If the cork is loose, air and moisture can enter — and the wine spoils.

The same principle applies to a tooth.

The filling material used during a root canal must fit tightly and completely, creating a strong seal that prevents moisture and bacteria from traveling back into the tooth.

A poor seal can allow reinfection and may require additional treatment in the future.

When to See a Dentist

Signs that a tooth nerve may be infected include:

• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold 

• Pain when biting or chewing 

• Swelling or tenderness 

• A darkened tooth 

• A small bump or pimple on the gums 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, early evaluation is important. Treating an infection sooner can help prevent more serious complications.

Professional Guidance Can Help

Our dental office is located at 27871 Medical Center Rd, Mission Viejo, CA 92691, where preventive care and personalized guidance are part of routine dental visits.