What is Tooth Resorption?
If you have been told by a dental professional that you are experiencing Tooth Resorption, you are probably wondering what that means. Tooth resorption usually occurs after a dental implant or tooth replacement, or traumatic injury and it usually means the body is rejecting the tooth material.
Your body is engineered to combat foreign materials and break them down. This is the basis of your immune system, and to some extent your digestive system. When it comes to Dentistry, the doctors work very carefully and precisely to ascertain the best way to integrate with your body’s systems. However, sometimes the body notices and begins a process of rejection or resorption of tissues. This can also happen with your natural tooth materials, when inflammation or infection is so deeply rooted that your body no longer recognizes the tooth as a part of the body. This usually means that some underlying disease or infection has gotten so bad, that your body sees the tissues in this area as doing more harm than good.
Two Forms of Resorption
Tooth Resorption has two common forms:
Internal- This is what is known as a “hollow tooth” and occurs when the cavity within the tooth begins absorbing the healthy tissues inside. This is commonly due to serious trauma to the area, or exposure to very harmful chemicals. The root of the tooth will begin to sap Dentin and Cementum into the canal of your tooth, and this will cause a reddish-pink tint on the outside of the tooth. You could also expect some noticeable bad breath, and these signs should lead you to see your dental care team for some x rays.
External- External Tooth resorption commonly manifests as tooth shifting, infection, and usually leaves the external of the teeth marred in some way. This can be due to forced quick movement of the teeth through orthodontics, severe infection, or trauma. External Resorption on it’s own can be difficult to diagnose because it so often occurs in tandem with internal resorption.
How can you Diagnose Tooth Resorption?
The first step should always be seeing your dental care team. No one is more prepared and engaged in the safety of your teeth and your overall dental health. Consult with them on your symptoms, and ask for updated x rays at your next appointment. Begin with a cleaning if possible, as this could help to show some external signs of resorption, like the pink tinge to the tooth or physical damage to the external areas.
How to Treat Tooth Resorption
Root Canal Treatment- Your dentist may opt to fill the area of the tooth root in order to combat the proliferance of harmful bacteria inside the hollow area.
Tooth Extraction- The tooth itself and surrounding tissues may be so damaged that the best course of action, as your body predicted, is to remove the tooth altogether and begin treating the tissues there. Once healthy tissues are thriving again, you can investigate replacement options.
Tissue Removal- Some of the harmful or infected tissues may be surgically extracted in order to allow the healthy ones to take over again. This is a great time to reinvest in healthy dental habits and clean up your care routine.