Can a Reabsorbed Tooth Be Saved?
If you are suffering from tooth resorption or you think you may be, it’s likely that you are wondering if the tooth can be saved.
Below is helpful information about what resorption is, some signs to look for, and whether or not a reabsorbed tooth can be saved.
What Is Resorption?
There are a few different types of resorption. These include:
- Internal Resorption: Internal resorption is a condition in which the interior of the pulp of a tooth becomes inflamed and odontoclasts (a form of cell) begin to damage the dentin. This may be caused by infection or trauma and will eventually lead to the tooth being hollowed out from the inside.
External Cervical Resorption: External cervical resorption is a condition in which the area where the tooth and gum meet (the cervical area) is affected. Often, external cervical resorption is caused by whitening, trauma, or orthodontic treatment.
External Apical Resorption: External apical resorption is a condition in which the roots of a patient’s tooth begin to dissolve. This is a natural progression for baby teeth, but it is a serious condition when it occurs in adult teeth. Often, this is caused by a tooth abscess.
Can a Reabsorbed Tooth Be Saved?
Often (especially if the issue is caught early on) a reabsorbed tooth can be saved. The most common and effective form of treatment for tooth resorption is a root canal, in which your dentist will clean out the root of the tooth and remove any infected pulp. With that said, root canal therapy may not be the best option, and surgery may be required.
If the tooth is too damaged from the resorption, extraction may be the only available option. From there, your dentist and you can consider replacement options which may include a dental bridge or an implant.
In order to avoid tooth resorption, it’s important to brush twice a day, floss, and rinse. You also should visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning and checkup.
Even with proper oral care, though, tooth resorption can occur. That’s why it is so imperative to visit your dentist regularly for checkups.
What to Look Out For
Are you concerned that you may be suffering from resorption? Here are some telltale signs to look for:
- Gum issues
- Changes in a tooth’s shape
- Tooth discoloration
- Pain
- Tooth fragility
While these are signs that are indicative of resorption, they can also be symptoms of other dental conditions. It’s imperative that you schedule an appointment if you notice these symptoms for a proper diagnosis.
Contact Us
If you believe you are suffering from tooth resorption, contact us today. The sooner we can perform an examination, the better. If it turns out you are dealing with tooth resorption, your dentist will determine if a root canal is the best treatment option. If not, they will better determine what is needed to address the issue.
We look forward to speaking with you and booking an appointment.