What is Tooth Resorption?
Oral health is not just about maintaining a white, cavity-free smile. Behind every smile, there are a series of processes and conditions that can affect the health of our teeth.
One of those conditions is tooth resorption. Although it is not as well-known as cavities, it is essential to understand what it is, its causes, how to prevent it and what treatments are available.
Tooth resorption is a natural process in which the gradual loss of tooth tissue occurs, whether from the crown or root of the tooth. This is a process in which the hard tissue of the tooth, known as dentin, breaks down and is absorbed by the body. This condition can affect the root or crown of the tooth, leading to tooth loss if not treated properly. This process can be caused by a series of factors, such as dental trauma, orthodontic movement, infections, periodontal diseases, treatment complications, among others. In some cases, resorption may occur asymptomatically, without the patient noticing or feeling any discomfort.
However, in other situations, resorption can lead to increased tooth sensitivity, pain, tooth mobility, change in tooth position, and even tooth loss. It is important to highlight that tooth resorption can be prevented or treated, as long as it is identified early. To achieve this, it is essential to maintain a regular oral hygiene care routine, such as brushing and flossing, as well as periodic visits to the dentist for exams and cleanings.
Furthermore, the treatment of resorption depends on the underlying cause of the process. In some cases, endodontic treatment (root canal) is necessary, while in others, surgical intervention may be necessary. The important thing is to seek dental care as soon as any symptoms or changes in the appearance or sensitivity of your teeth appear.
What are the types of tooth resorption and how to differentiate them?
Internal resorption: Inflammatory or substitutive (replacement of the tooth structure by mineralized tissue)
External resorption: Substitutive, inflammatory and invasive cervical resorption
Differentiation of each case is made through imaging tests, such as radiography. However, the Endodontist often needs to obtain more than one angle to determine the type of root resorption that has occurred.
Causes of tooth resorption
There are various causes that can cause tooth resorption:
- Trauma: Blows or injuries to the teeth can trigger a resorption process.
- Orthodontics: Very rapid tooth movements or excessive forces during orthodontic treatment can lead to resorption.
- Infections: Serious infections, such as a tooth abscess, can cause resorption.
- Systemic factors: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, can contribute to tooth resorption.
What are the treatment options for tooth resorption?
Treatment options for the problem will largely depend on the diagnosis. The good news is that most resorptions can be treated and don't require extraction. What may occur with some patients with extensive tooth resorption is the difficulty in maintaining the dental element. The dentist, in this case, even controls the resorption process, but is unable to make that dental element come into function. However, techniques and materials are increasingly evolving, thus improving treatments.