What is Tooth Resorption?
Resorption is a dental term that refers to the loss of a part of a tooth due to an injury or other problem. Resorption differs from cavities and is often caused by damage to the outside of a tooth and moves inwards, weakening and damaging the tooth as it does so. Resorption can impact the root, dentin, cementum, or the interior pulp of the tooth, depending on where the problem originated.
Common Problems Caused by Resorption
Resorption refers to the loss of some part of a tooth, this can lead to an incorrect bite, discomfort, difficulty speaking clearly, and other issues. It can also cause swelling in your gums. Other common problems caused by resorption include:
- Pain
- Infection
- Tooth loss
- Crooked Teeth
- Cosmetic Issues
Resorption can cause lasting damage that may require extensive repairs, so it is important to see your dentist regularly to get ahead of it. If you suspect you have an issue with one or more teeth or have broken or chipped teeth, a visit to the dentist can help determine the underlying problem and a course of action to help you feel better.
Internal vs. External Resorption
There are two distinct types of resorption: internal and external. The type of resorption you have is determined by the part of the tooth that is impacted. External resorption is easier to spot, simply because it is on the outside of the tooth, but both types are common and cause similar uncomfortable symptoms.
- Internal Resorption: This type of tooth resorption happens on the inside of the tooth. It is slightly less common than the external type and often happens to people who have had extensive dental work. Since internal resorption can’t be seen from the outside, it may not be noticed until it gets uncomfortable. A dentist or periodontist can easily spot the signs of this condition using an x-ray.
- External Resorption: This is the more common version of this dental complaint and refers to problems arising on the external or outside surface of the tooth. It could look like a chip or even a missing part of a tooth. This form of resorption also shows up on an x-ray, but you may notice the damage yourself as well.
Baby Teeth and Resorption
The same issues that can be problematic and painful for permanent, adult teeth are perfectly normal in baby teeth. When your child grows, his teeth naturally undergo internal resorption, which makes way for the permanent adult teeth and ensures that their baby teeth come out when they should.
Resorption Causes
The most common cause for resorption in adults is an injury to the mouth, jaw, or teeth. When you are injured and your tooth is damaged (either noticeably or not) the process of resorption can begin. While an injury is the most common cause, orthodontics, like braces, overtreatment with whitening agents and even grinding your teeth, can cause injuries that will trigger resorption.
What to do About Resorption
While you can spot the signs of resorption on your own, the only way to confirm you have this common dental condition is to see your Vero Beach periodontist. Resorption is diagnosed by exam and x-ray, so you’ll need to be seen to confirm you have this condition. Since many other dental conditions mimic resorption, it is important to visit the professionals at Vero Implant and Periodontics – otherwise, you have no way of knowing what is going on.
Tooth Resorption at Vero Implants and Periodontics
Once we confirm that you have resorption or uncover the reason for your discomfort, we can craft a treatment plan that addresses your concerns and ensures your teeth are repaired. In some severe cases, dental implants may be recommended – but as with most dental concerns and conditions, the sooner you are seen, the better.
Get in touch today to get help with your tooth resorption. If you are in pain, have a broken or chipped tooth or other dental concern, schedule a visit as soon as possible – these conditions will not get better on their own. Contact us online to get started today!