How Serious is Tooth Resorption
Tooth resorption is a common dental issue that can have a negative impact on all parts of a tooth and even your oral health. It is most often caused by some sort of trauma to the mouth from impact, chemicals, or heat. Resorption can also result from orthodontic treatment that is progressed through too quickly.
You may not notice any symptoms with early stages of resorption but as it advances, symptoms can include:
* Pink or dark discoloration on the tooth
* Swelling and redness in the gum tissue around the tooth
* New spacing between teeth
* Pain in the tooth
Resorption can lead to dental infection and eventually tooth loss as well as other dental issues that can have a lasting effect on your oral health.
Types of Tooth Resorption
Resorption is either internal or external, the later being the most common. Internal resorption begins within the tooth and often progresses without symptoms but your dentist will be able to identify internal resorption with dental x-rays. On an x-ray, a tooth with internal resorption will show dark spots where internal tissue is missing.
External resorption is much more common and can affect any part of the outside of the tooth. The patient may be able to identify symptoms much easier than with internal resorption. On an x-ray, your dentist will be able to see the tips of the root shortening and flattening off.
Treating Tooth Resorption
The type of treatment your dentist recommends will depend on the type and extent of the resorption. The goal of treatment will be to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible. Root canal therapy is a common treatment with a high success rate. If the resorption is too far advanced, you may have to have the tooth extracted and replaced with either a dental bridge or a dental implant.
Is tooth resorption serious?
Tooth resorption should not be ignored. If you suffer an injury to your mouth, it is important to see your dentist as soon as possible to make sure everything is healthy, even if you are not experiencing any pain. Resorption can cause long-lasting damage and even tooth loss.
Resorption is a result of something happening to your teeth, so make sure to maintain a healthy oral care routine at home and to see your dentist for regular visits. Your dentist and dental hygienist will be able to recognize signs of resorption and help find the right treatment path for you to prevent further damage.