WHAT IS TOOTH RESORPTION

What Is Tooth Resorption?

If you have been recently diagnosed with “tooth resorption”, you may be wondering what that is. Below is helpful information about tooth resorption, including what it is, what signs to look for, and possible treatment options.

What Is Tooth Resorption?

Tooth resorption (also known as “tooth root resorption”) is the eroding or dissolving of a tooth. It is often caused by physical trauma, orthodontic treatment, gum disease, dental infection, whitening, previous dental work, or an abscess.

The types of resorption include:

• Internal Resorption: Internal resorption is a condition in which the interior of a tooth pulp becomes inflamed-leading to odontoclasts (a type of cell) breaking down the dentin of a tooth over time. This condition is generally a result of trauma or infection.
• External Cervical Resorption: External cervical resorption is a condition in which resorption works its way inward and affects the area where the gum and tooth meet. This form of resorption is generally due to trauma, orthodontic treatment, and whitening.
• External Apical Resorption: This form of resorption involves the roots of the tooth dissolving. While this sounds alarming, it generally only occurs in baby teeth. If it does occur as an adult, it is a cause for concern. It’s often caused by an abscess.

What Signs Should I Look For?

There are some common signs of tooth resorption that you can look for. These include:

• Gum issues and recession
• Changes in a tooth’s shape
• Tooth discoloration
• Tooth fragility
• Pain

While it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist for as soon as possible if you notice these symptoms, you should also see your dentist every six months for a checkup so they can catch any signs of resorption early.

Treatment Options for Tooth Resorption

When it comes to tooth resorption, dentists will often provide root canal treatment. This involves your dentist removing infected tooth pulp, then cleaning and disinfecting the tooth root. After this is done, the root of the tooth is sealed. While this is generally enough, your dentist may decide you need to undergo surgery to treat the condition.

While your dentist will do what they can to save the tooth, if it is too far gone, they may need to remove the tooth. After the extraction, you’ll likely be provided with replacement options that can include a dental implant, a dental bridge, or a partial denture.

In order to prevent tooth resorption, make sure you brush twice a day, floss, and rinse. You’ll also want to wear a mouthguard if you play sports.

Keep in mind, though, that tooth resorption can’t always be prevented. Make sure you visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups. Your dentist should be able to catch resorption early by detecting the condition with x-rays. Let your dentist know if you are experiencing symptoms of resorption.

Reach Out Today

If you believe you are suffering from tooth resorption, reach out today. We’ll schedule an appointment for a top dentist to take a look at your teeth to see if resorption is occurring. From there, an expert treatment plan can be put together to meet your needs and treat the resorption.

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