What Is Tooth Resorption?
Resorption refers to a physiological process in which the body breaks down its own tissues and absorbs the nutrients to redistribute them to other parts of the body. This process can affect both primary teeth and permanent teeth, leading to various degrees of damage and potential tooth loss if left untreated.
There are two main types of tooth resorption: internal and external. Internal resorption occurs within the soft tissues inside the tooth structure known as dentin. External resorption affects the outer surface of the tooth, typically starting at the root or the calcified tissue layer that covers the root, known as cementum. While the exact causes of tooth resorption are not always clear, several factors may contribute to its development including trauma, inflammation, infection, or genetic predisposition.
Internal tooth resorption often begins at the pulp chamber, where specialized cells called odontoclasts (similar to the bone-resorbing cells known as osteoclasts) start to break down the dentin and underlying tissues. This process may be triggered by accidental impacts or other trauma, chronic inflammation, or infection. As the resorption progresses, the affected tooth may develop a pinkish hue due to the presence of vascular tissue within the resorbed area.
External tooth resorption usually starts at the outer surface of the tooth, most commonly at the root. This type of resorption can be caused by various factors, including trauma, orthodontic treatments, periodontal diseases, or pressure from neighboring teeth. As the resorption progresses, the tooth’s root may become shortened and the surrounding bone may be diminished, leading to the potential of tooth mobility and the eventual loss of the tooth if left untreated.
Tooth resorption can present with a range of symptoms depending on its severity and location. These may include tooth sensitivity, pain, swelling, gum recession, and mobility. In some cases, tooth resorption may progress asymptomatically and only be detected during a routine dental examination or through x-rays or other dental imaging.
Diagnosing tooth resorption typically involves a thorough clinical examination, including a review of the patient’s dental history and symptoms, as well as x-rays to visualize the extent and location of the resorption. Once diagnosed, the appropriate treatment plan will depend on the type and severity of the resorption.
For mild cases, vigilant monitoring may be the first option. In cases of mild or asymptomatic resorption, your dentist might choose to monitor the condition closely with regular dental check-ups and x-rays to ensure the resorption does not progress too quickly.
If the resorption has affected the inner pulp and root, root canal therapy may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and seal the tooth to prevent further infection and resorption.
For more advanced cases of external resorption or when the resorption cannot be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments, surgical intervention may be required. In some cases, a root resection surgery may solve the issue, though extraction is often necessary.
Instances of tooth resorption caused by orthodontic issues or malocclusion, orthodontic treatment may work to relieve the pressures that affect the tooth and prevent further resorption.
Early detection and prompt intervention are crucial to managing tooth resorption and preventing potential complications such as tooth loss. Regular dental examination and a good dental hygiene regimen are essential for preserving dental health and detecting any signs of resorption before they begin to cause harm to one’s oral health.