To see if a tooth has injured a nerve can be determined by temperature testing, clinical examination, and imaging.
1. Temperature test: For certain caries, hot and cold temperature test can assist in diagnosis. If there is pain after hot or cold stimulation and significant delayed pain after the stimulation is removed, it is likely that the caries has spread to the nerve. If necessary, pulp vitality test should be performed.
2. Clinical examination: For some caries, trauma-induced crown fracture or root fracture, etc., if the nerve is injured, the naked eye can find obvious pulp exposure. Clinicians can use high-speed drills to cut the tooth tissue, or use an enlarging needle to detect whether there is any soreness in the root canal, if there is pain, it means that the nerve has been injured.
3. Imaging: X-rays and dental CT can be performed. If a projection is seen that is connected to the pulpal cavity, it usually indicates that the nerve has been affected.
There may be other ways to see if the tooth has injured the nerve, and it is recommended to go to the dentistry department of a regular hospital for regular checkups. For some oral diseases, early detection and treatment are needed.