Root Resorption: What You Need to Know

Protect Your Dental Health with Early Detection and Expert Care

While tooth decay and gum disease are the most common threats to dental health, there are rare conditions that can also jeopardize your teeth. One such condition is root resorption, a process where the root of a tooth begins to break down and is absorbed by the body.

Root resorption is a natural part of the life cycle of primary (baby) teeth, allowing them to loosen and make way for permanent teeth. However, in adult teeth, resorption is abnormal and can lead to serious dental issues if left untreated.

What Is Root Resorption?

Root resorption in adult teeth occurs when the root or its surface begins to deteriorate. This can happen in two ways:

• Internal Resorption: The breakdown starts from the inside of the tooth and works outward.
• External Resorption: The breakdown begins on the outer surface of the root and progresses inward.

The most common form of external resorption is External Cervical Resorption (ECR), which typically occurs around the neck (cervical) portion of the tooth. ECR often starts as pink spots on the enamel and can quickly progress into cavity-like areas. If not detected and treated early, it can lead to significant damage and even tooth loss.

What Causes Root Resorption?

While the exact causes of root resorption are not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified:

• Orthodontic Treatment: Excessive force on teeth during orthodontic procedures can damage the periodontal ligament, increasing the risk of resorption.
• Dental Trauma: Injuries to the teeth or jaw can trigger resorption.
• Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): Chronic grinding or clenching can place stress on the teeth and surrounding structures.
• Certain Dental Procedures: Treatments like internal tooth whitening may contribute to resorption in some cases.

It’s important to note that while these factors may increase the risk, the majority of people who experience them do not develop root resorption.

How Is Root Resorption Treated?

The key to successful treatment is early detection. Root resorption often goes unnoticed by patients in its early stages, but routine dental checkups and x-rays can help identify the condition before it progresses.

Treatment options depend on the severity of the resorption:

1. Early-Stage Treatment: The damaged tissue is removed, and the affected area is restored with tooth-colored filling material.
2. Advanced Cases: If the resorption has reached the tooth’s pulp (interior layer), a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth.
3. Severe Cases: If the damage is extensive and the tooth cannot be saved, extraction may be required.

Why Early Detection Matters

The more advanced the resorption, the harder it becomes to save the tooth. Regular dental checkups—at least twice a year—are essential for catching early signs of root resorption and preventing further damage.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re concerned about root resorption or want to learn more about protecting your dental health, the team at Beverly Hills Advanced Specialties of Dentistry is here to help. Dr. Frank Vidjak and our experienced team use advanced diagnostic tools to detect and treat root resorption early, ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Call us at (310) 861-3955 to schedule your consultation and safeguard your smile today!