If you leave a tooth to be resorbed, it will be completely destroyed by your own immune system over time. In the same way you lost all your “baby teeth” you will begin to lose healthy tooth and bone material and this can lead to devastating consequences for your teeth, jaw, gums, and self confidence. At earliest signs of tooth resorption, see your dentist.
What is Tooth Resorption?
Tooth resorption occurs when the tissues of your body are broken down by enzymes and cells within the dental ecosystem. These are typically called odontoclasts, and they are pivotal in the break down and absorption of otherwise healthy tissue that naturally occurs in your mouth. For instance in the baby teeth transition, or the breakdown of healthy gum tissue to create new gum tissue. Tissues and cells are living; they die and are recreated within the mouth. However, certain levels of resorption become detrimental and need to be check out by a qualified dental professional sooner rather than later.
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.
Signs and Symptoms of Tooth Resorption
- Pain, especially in the jaw or starting from the root of the tooth
- Discoloration, especially darker colors in the dentin of the teeth (hollow)
- Bleeding
- Halitosis
- Small Chips, cracks, or holes on the visible surface of your teeth
- More fragile or prone to chipping teeth
See the Dentist
Get in for a follow up immediately, or make an appointment post-haste. The sooner you get seen the more likely you are to avoid dire consequences. There is no reason to delay and wait for serious pain or discomfort to begin. If you get checked out early, you can get a nice cleaning and consultation. Then, after an x ray, you and the Doctor can discuss all the best options for repairing your teeth and gums tissues. This could include:
Root Canal- A space maybe allocated beneath your tooth wherein a filler is placed
Tooth Extraction- The tooth itself may be removed in order to extract unhealthy tissue damage from the area.
