“Dead tooth” is the often used definition of a non-vital tooth. It simply means that the nerve and blood vessels within the canals and pulp of the tooth are no longer vital (alive). The condition may be totally without discomfort or it may be painful. In either case, root canal therapy is required to save the tooth. The devitalized tooth may have been caused by excessive decay, trauma, or splitting of the tooth. Even after the root canal, the tooth may be referred to as a “dead tooth.” Trauma sometimes causes internal bleeding and the tiny canals are filled with blood which dries and usually turns dark resulting in a “dark tooth.” This also devitalizes the tooth which necessitates a root canal.
