Root resorption is when the body breaks down and absorbs the tissues surrounding the tooth. Internal resorption occurs when the interior of your tooth is absorbed into the root canal. If this continues, the inside of your tooth may become hollow. External resorption, on the other hand, causes the outer sections of the root to degrade. 

Both types of resorption are caused by inflammation, and the earlier you treat them, the better. They're both extremely damaging and can eventually result in tooth loss. Visit Prime Endodontics for the best dental care.

Root Resorption Causes and Symptoms

Root resorption is more of a process because it occurs in various stages. The body breaks down and absorbs the tissues surrounding the tooth, eventually destroying the tooth's root structure. This can occur both internally and externally. 

Internal root resorption takes place within the root canal space, whereas external root resorption takes place at the root surface. External root resorption is more common than internal root resorption, yet due to its rarity, internal root resorption is sometimes mistaken as external root resorption.

In terms of causes, root resorption can occur for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common is the loss of baby teeth. The roots of our baby teeth can be reabsorbed back into the jawbone when we transition from baby teeth to primary adult teeth, allowing the primary teeth to grow and push the baby teeth out of the socket. 

However, it can be preceded by other disorders such as tooth infections, tooth movement from orthodontic treatment, impacted teeth, and chronic teeth grinding. This condition sometimes occurs asymptomatically in adults. However, signs of disorders that cause root resorption, such as acute tooth pain, gum inflammation, and temperature sensitivity, can occur.

Root Resorption Treatment

Because there are so many different causes, root resorption treatment varies considerably. Our endodontist will most likely request imaging tests to better understand your situation and its severity. Mild cases may require addressing symptoms such as edema and pain. If you have a mild case, our endodontist may recommend treatment such as a root canal or tooth extraction.

Preventing root resorption is better than curing it. Maintain regular dental appointments with your endodontist so that they can detect teeth problems early. Maintain proper dental hygiene habits, such as brushing twice daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth daily with floss, water flossers, or another interdental cleaning device.

The sooner any oral health issues are detected, the sooner our endodontist in Kirkland, WA can provide treatment and restore your smile’s health. Visit Prime Endodontics at 1029 Market St., Suite 10, Kirkland, WA 98033, or call (425) 440-2000 to schedule an appointment.