Tooth resorption (also called “tooth root resorption”) is a condition in which the root of a tooth erodes or dissolves. There are a few underlying causes, which include gum disease, trauma to the tooth, orthodontic treatment, previous dental work, an abscess, or tooth whitening.
Types of Resorption
There are a few types of resorption, which include:
- External Cervical Resorption: This type of resorption is often caused by trauma, whitening, or orthodontic treatment. With external cervical resorption, the resorption starts from the outside and works inward.
- External Apical Resorption: External apical resorption involves the roots of a tooth dissolving. This is natural for babies but is a cause for concern with adult teeth. Often, this is caused by a tooth abscess.
- Internal Resorption: This is a condition in which the inflammation of tooth pulp leads to cells called “odontoclasts” breaking down tooth dentin over time. This may be caused by infection or trauma.
The Signs of Resorption
There are some telltale signs of tooth resorption that you can look out for. These include:
- Pain
- Changes in a tooth’s shape
- Tooth discoloration
- Gum issues and recession
- Tooth fragility
It’s important to keep in mind that these symptoms occur as a result of other oral health conditions as well. Make sure you schedule an appointment with your dentist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment Options
The most common treatment option for tooth resorption is root canal treatment. Also known as a “root canal,” this treatment involves the removal of infected root pulp tissue. The tooth is then cleaned, disinfected, and sealed.
If the issue is more advanced, your dentist may opt for surgery or even extraction of the tooth. This is why it’s so important to address tooth resorption early on.
Prevention
One of the best ways to receive early treatment for tooth root resorption is to visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup. During your checkup, your dentist can look for signs of tooth root resorption and other oral health problems. If they notice tooth resorption, they can put a treatment plan in place.
In addition to visiting your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup, you should brush your teeth twice a day, and floss and rinse daily. If you play contact sports, make sure you wear a mouth guard to ensure your teeth remain safe.
While there are circumstances in which tooth resorption can’t be avoided, following the tips above will lower the chances of tooth resorption drastically.
Contact Us Today
If you notice the symptoms of tooth resorption, contact us today. We’ll have an expert dentist take a look at your tooth and determine whether or not you are suffering from resorption. From there, we will put together a custom treatment plan to address the resorption.
Don’t wait for your tooth resorption to become worse! Reach out today for treatment.