Necrotic pulp is a finding in dentistry to describe dental pulp within a tooth which has become necrotic. It is a finding of interest to dentists as the process of pulp death may be painful causing a toothache. Sequelae of a necrotic pulp include acute apical periodontitis, dental abscess or radicular cyst and discolouration of the tooth that may require tooth bleaching. Tests for a necrotic pulp include: vitality testing using a thermal test or an electric pulp tester. Discolouration may be visually obvious, or more subtle. Treatment usually involves endodontics or extraction.
