[The dentogenic inflammation, diagnosis, course and treatment]

Inflammation begins as a response of the immune system to an external, harmful stimulus. This stimulus can be chemical, mechanical or bacterial in nature. The inflammatory response is necessary to create optimal conditions for healing. In case of pulpitis, a peri-apical granuloma, peri-coronitis or periodontitis, complaints arise as a result of an inflammatory reaction. With further progression, such as an infiltrate or a submucosal abscess, the bacteria will eventually invade the tissues and develop an infection. Given the high prevalence of dental diseases, oral health care providers are regularly confronted with the consequences of dentogenic inflammation and subsequent infections. Each specific stage of dentogenic inflammation presents symptoms that are important for making the correct diagnosis. This is important in applying the optimal dental, surgical or medical treatment.