What is the definition of irreversible pulpitis?

Irreversible pulpitis is defined as a severe inflammation of the dental pulp that leads to significant discomfort and often results in the necessity of tooth extraction if left untreated. This condition typically arises when the pulp, containing nerves and blood vessels, becomes infected or damaged to a point where it cannot heal itself. When a pulpitis is classified as irreversible, it indicates that the inflammation is chronic and that the tooth's pulp is not viable, often leading to symptoms such as prolonged pain and sensitivity to temperature changes.

In contrast, other options describe conditions that do not accurately reflect the nature of irreversible pulpitis. Minor discomfort in the gum near the tooth would be more aligned with milder dental issues, while reversible inflammation indicates that the pulp can recover and heal. An infection located outside of the tooth root pertains to different dental pathologies, such as periodontal disease or periapical abscesses, rather than conditions affecting the pulp directly. Thus, the selected answer encapsulates the concept of irreversible pulpitis accurately.