Tooth root resorption is a condition in which the tooth of a patient starts to erode or dissolve over time. If you are suffering from tooth resorption or you suspect you are, it’s important to understand how serious the condition is, along with the types and treatment options.
How Serious Is Tooth Resorption?
Tooth resorption can become very serious over time, and can lead to:
- Infection
- Chipping
- Discoloration
- Pain
- Tooth loss
If you are experiencing tooth resorption, make sure you visit the dentist to put together a plan of action to address the issue.
Types of Tooth Resorption
There are various types of tooth resorption that a patient can suffer from. These include:
- External Cervical Resorption: External cervical resorption may be caused by dental trauma, whitening, or orthodontic treatment. This type of tooth resorption involves erosion of the area where the gum and tooth meet.
- External Apical Resorption: With external apical resorption, the tooth root of a patient dissolves. For baby teeth, this is completely natural. For adult teeth, though, it is very problematic. In an adult, this may be caused by a tooth abscess.
- Internal Resorption: Internal resorption involves the tooth hollowing from the inside out. Odontoclast cells wear down the dentin of the tooth as the interior of the tooth becomes inflamed. This is often caused by tooth trauma or infection.
The Signs of Tooth Root Resorption
There are a few signs you can look for to better determine if you have tooth root resorption. These include:
- Pain
- Tooth fragility
- Changes in a tooth’s shape
- Tooth discoloration
- Gum issues
While these are symptoms of resorption, they are also symptomatic of other oral health conditions. Schedule an appointment with your dentist for an examination. They’ll determine the root cause of the issue and put together a treatment plan.
Can Tooth Root Resorption Be Treated?
Generally, tooth root resorption can be treated. With that said, it’s important to catch the issue early on.
One common treatment option for tooth root resorption is root canal therapy. This treatment involves a dentist removing the infected pulp of a tooth, then cleaning, disinfecting, and sealing the tooth. For more serious resorption issues, surgery (or even extraction) may be needed.
To help prevent tooth resorption, make sure to brush twice a day, along with flossing and rinsing daily. Visit your dentist every six months for your regular checkup and cleaning. This allows them to catch the issue early on. Also, wear a mouth guard if you play contact sports to avoid trauma to your teeth.
Contact Us
Tooth root resorption can become serious, so it’s important to address it as soon as possible. Reach out today to set an appointment for your dentist to take a look at your tooth and determine whether or not you are suffering from resorption. From there, your dentist will put together a treatment plan to meet your needs.