ENDODONTITIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Endodontitis is a dental condition characterized by the inflammation and infection of the soft tissues within the tooth, known as the pulp. It is commonly caused by untreated dental caries (tooth decay) that allows bacteria to penetrate the tooth and reach the pulp. Endodontitis is also associated with other factors such as dental trauma, cracks or fractures in the tooth, and repeated dental procedures on the affected tooth.
The inflammation and infection of the pulp in endodontitis can lead to a range of symptoms, including persistent toothache, sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, swelling and tenderness of the gums, and the formation of a dental abscess. In some cases, individuals may also experience a bad taste in the mouth, foul-smelling breath, or the discoloration of the affected tooth.
If left untreated, endodontitis can progress and cause further complications, such as the spread of infection to surrounding tissues or the formation of a fistula (an abnormal opening or tract). Treatment for endodontitis typically involves a procedure known as root canal therapy, which aims to remove the infected pulp, clean the root canals, and seal the tooth to prevent reinfection. If the condition has advanced significantly or if the tooth is extensively damaged, extraction of the tooth may be necessary.
Regular dental check-ups, good oral hygiene practices, and timely treatment of dental caries can help prevent the development of endodontitis and maintain optimal dental health.
-
Inflammation of the pulp of a tooth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ENDODONTITIS
- wndodontitis
- sndodontitis
- dndodontitis
- rndodontitis
- 4ndodontitis
- 3ndodontitis
- ebdodontitis
- emdodontitis
- ejdodontitis
- ehdodontitis
- ensodontitis
- enxodontitis
- encodontitis
- enfodontitis
- enrodontitis
- eneodontitis
- endidontitis
- endkdontitis
- endldontitis
- endpdontitis
Etymology of ENDODONTITIS
The word "endodontitis" is derived from two Greek terms: "endo" meaning "inside" or "within", and "odont" meaning "tooth". The suffix "-itis" is a combining form indicating inflammation. Therefore, "endodontitis" refers to the inflammation within the tooth, specifically in the pulp, which is the soft tissue found in the center of the tooth containing blood vessels and nerves.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
