What can cause pulpitis?

Pulpitis refers to the inflammation of the dental pulp, which is the innermost part of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. The primary cause of pulpitis is generally related to the exposure of the pulp to harmful bacteria, which can occur when there are deep cavities that reach into the dentin. As decay progresses and breaches the protective enamel layer, it can create a pathway for bacteria to invade the pulp, leading to inflammation and pain.

Deep cavities penetrate beyond the enamel and into the dentin layer, providing an opportunity for bacterial invasion. This is why deep cavities are considered a significant factor in the development of pulpitis. The damage incurred from these cavities can result in not just inflammation but also potential infection of the pulp tissue, complicating the clinical management of the affected tooth.

Inadequate oral hygiene can lead to the development of cavities, but without significant decay reaching the pulp, it may not directly cause pulpitis. Excessive fluoride exposure can cause dental fluorosis, but it is not typically a cause of pulpitis. Chipped teeth can expose the tooth structure but may not always lead to pulpitis unless there is significant damage that allows bacteria to reach the pulp chamber. Therefore, the presence of deep cavities into the dentin provides