What are some common causes of pulp inflammation?

Pulp inflammation, often referred to as pulpitis, can be caused by a variety of factors, with traumatic occlusion and decay being significant contributors. When decay occurs, it compromises the tooth structure, allowing bacteria to penetrate deeper into the tooth and irritate the pulp. Additionally, traumatic occlusion—where abnormal forces are applied to the tooth during biting or grinding—can lead to microtrauma and inflammation within the dental pulp. Both of these causes result in an inflammatory response as the pulp attempts to heal and protect itself from further damage.

Other factors, while they can also impact dental health, are not primarily associated with pulp inflammation. For instance, infection or swelling is a broader term that could involve pulp issues but is not specific enough to address the primary causes of pulp inflammation. Excessive heat exposure might impact dental structures but is less commonly recognized as a direct cause of pulpitis. Allergic reactions to materials can cause discomfort or reactions in the gum tissues or surrounding areas, but they don't directly lead to inflammation of the dental pulp itself. Thus, traumatic occlusion and decay are most clearly linked to the physiological processes involved in pulp inflammation.