How Serious is Tooth Resorption?
Tooth resorption is the loss of some parts of your tooth. This is usually the result of an injury or an untreated dental issue, like a cavity.
Tooth resorption is a common kind of dental injury or irritation that results in loss of a part or even parts of a tooth. Resorption can affect all parts of a tooth, including:
* The interior soft tissue pulp.
* The cementum, which covers the root.
* The dentin, which is the second layer directly underneath the enamel.
* The overall root itself.
The condition most frequently starts on the outside of a tooth and then moves inwards. You might notice some swelling in your gums, and pink or dark spots on your teeth. The signs of resorption are not always easy to identify.
Tooth resorption may lead to damaging infections, crooked teeth, tooth loss, and other issues that may cause permanent damage to your teeth, gums, and your jaw. If you think you might be experiencing this issue, it is essential to see your dentist soon.
What are The Types of Resorptions?
Tooth resorption is either internal or external, based on where the loss occurs. External resorption is easier to notice than internal resorption because it occurs on the outer surface and can be seen.
* Internal- Internal resorption affects the inside parts of a tooth. It is less common than external and happens more often with men. It can also occur if you have received extensive oral surgery.
Most likely you are unaware you have internal resorption because it affects the tissues inside of a tooth. A dentist identifies internal resorption with X-rays during your normal exam.
* External- External resorption is more common than internal. It will affect any part of the outside of the tooth, from the roots to the cementum. On the surface, external resorption might look like chips or holes in the tooth. Resorption affecting the roots can be seen in X-rays as a shortening of the roots and a flattening of the root tips.
What is Normal Tooth Resorption?
Tooth resorption can cause long-term damage to permanent teeth. But with baby teeth, resorption is a completely normal part of the dental development process. The roots of all baby teeth undergo resorption to make way for the permanent teeth.
Complications from Tooth Resorption
Tooth resorption can cause complications, including:
* Various infections.
* Tooth weakness and discoloration.
* A chipped tooth.
* Cavity-like holes.
* Crooked teeth.
* The loss of teeth.
* Recession of roots.
* Various levels of pain or discomfort.
If you do not like the appearance of your teeth, you may want to speak with your dentist about cosmetic solutions after seeking treatment for tooth resorption.
What is the Treatment for Tooth Resorption?
The treatment recommended for your tooth resorption depends on what part is affected and the severity of the damage. Treatment for tooth resorption is focused on preserving the remaining parts of a tooth. This usually means removing damaged parts to prevent further resorption.
Treatment options include:
* A root canal.
* A dental crown.
* Gum surgery.
* Tooth extraction.
Tooth resorption often affects the appearance of a tooth. Veneers on a damaged tooth or a dental implant for a tooth that has been removed will regain your natural look.