Tooth resorption is not necessarily always reversible, but nor is it always detrimental. With proper care and communication with your dental care team, you can manage the resorption process and avoid further complications for the teeth and gums. In order to err on the side of positive interventions, be sure to see the Dentist earlier rather than later. Your Dentist and their whole office are in the business of saving and protecting teeth, try your best to trust them and lean on their expertise.
What is Tooth Resorption?
Tooth resorption refers to the process of the body identifying foreign materials and attacking them or removing them from the ecosystem. Your body has a system in place where odontoclasts are released in order to signal the breaking down of tooth tissue; namely your “baby teeth”. However, after advanced dental work, this process can be initiated prematurely or unnecessarily Sometimes this involves breaking down tissues and absorbing them. In the case of dental resorption, small cavities within the tooth begin sapping healthy tissue, like dentin, from the tooth structure in an attempt to save them from trauma, disease, or infection.
Types of Resorption
Internal Resorption- This occurs when the tissues begin to sap from the inside out, and can be seen through x rays or 3d scans. A small pocket within the tooth is breaking down tissues around it, and drawing in tissues that surround. A noticeable external sign is a reddish or pink hue on the tooth or teeth. This can lead to a hollow tooth.
External Resorption- External resorption usually goes hand in hand with internal resorption, and can be characterized by structural or cosmetic damage to the tooth. External resorption is often the result of forced rapid movement of the tooth, like braces or invisalign, and can lead to shifting teeth syndrome.
How can you Treat Tooth Resorption?
If you see your dentist early enough, there are plenty of things that can be done to treat resorption before the tissues become detrimentally compromised. But remember, earlier is better than later. You should call and get seen at the earliest signs of resorption.
Root Canal Treatment- Root canals help to remove all the unhealthy and harmful tissues from the inside root cavity. This will help to slow or stop the process of resorption, because the tissues which are decaying are scarred and removed, and the natural immune system can work on repairing the scarred tissue–instead of absorbing the healthy ones. The cavity is then filled with a helpful composite which makes the regrowth of harmful bacteria less likely–as long as you are following you hygiene and follow up recommendations.
Tooth Extraction- In some cases the best thing is to remove the whole tooth structure. In order to minimize the development of absorbing tissues, the entire tooth is extracted and the entire root underneath can be scraped and filled. The tooth can then be replaced down the line, once infection and resorption are at a minimum risk.
