A patient presents with pain in the mandibular first molar after consuming cold beverages. What is the likely diagnosis?

The scenario describes a patient experiencing pain in the mandibular first molar specifically after consuming cold beverages. This symptom is indicative of issues related to the dental pulp.

In reversible pulpitis, the pulp may be irritated but still has a chance to heal, typically resulting in mild or transient pain that resolves once the stimulus is removed. However, the fact that the pain is triggered by cold suggests an acute reaction, which often aligns more closely with irreversible pulpitis.

Irreversible pulpitis occurs when the pulp becomes inflamed to a point that it can no longer heal. This often results in prolonged pain, sometimes particularly acute with cold stimuli. The pain can be sharp and linger even after the cold source is removed, signaling that the nerve endings in the pulp are deeply affected.

While cracked tooth syndrome can present similar symptoms, it typically involves additional signs like pain during biting or release of pressure, which hasn't been indicated in this scenario. Physiologically normal pulp would result in no pain; therefore, it is not a likely diagnosis given the patient's symptoms.

Thus, based on the symptoms described, the diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis is supported by the nature of the pain in relation to cold exposure, making it the most likely explanation for the patient's discomfort.