What happens during the root resorption process, and how can it be treated?

Root resorption is a natural process that starts during the transition from primary (baby) teeth to permanent (adult) teeth, making space for the permanent teeth to erupt properly. However, root resorption can also occur in permanent teeth, which can cause significant damage to the integrity and function of the tooth. While this process can occur in anyone, it tends to be more common in people who have had any traumatic tooth injury; it may also be caused due to orthodontic treatment, teeth grinding or clenching without a Nightguard, periodontal disease, certain autoimmune diseases, or inflammatory diseases as arthritis between others. At Beverly Hills Advanced Specialties of Dentistry in Beverly Hills, California, Dr. Fanny Yacaman specializes in treating root resorption to help you preserve your natural tooth and avoid extraction.

What happens during root resorption?

There are two types of root resorption: internal and external. 

• Internal resorption occurs in the nerve chamber deep within the tooth. Typically, if this type of resorption is caught early on, root canal therapy can be an effective treatment option as it removes the cells that trigger the resorption process. However to improve the prognosis of this treatment, I use MTA, which is a material that add year’s of prognosis to the treatment 
• External resorption occurs when the resorption process is triggered outside the tooth and often takes place after the ligaments connecting the tooth root to the underlying bone become damaged. Because this type of resorption occurs from the outside, a root canal cannot resolve it. 

While the symptoms of root resorption vary from patient to patient, they may include: 

• Pain in the tooth
• Tooth discoloration
• Swollen and red gums
• Teeth that have become brittle or are starting to chip
• Holes in the teeth
• Unusual gaps or spacing between teeth

Diagnosing and treating root resorption

Dr. Fanny Yacaman is a leading specialist in conservative treatment options for root resorption. In our comfortable, “spa-like” dental office, we will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your oral structures to determine the underlying cause of any symptoms you may be having. Based on this information, we will work with you to formulate a treatment plan for root resorption tailored to your specific needs and preferences. 

With effective treatment at an early stage, root resorption does not necessarily equate to tooth loss. To schedule your consultation at Beverly Hills Advanced Specialties of Dentistry, call (310) 861-3955 or book your appointment online.

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