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