tooth Resorption
Resorption is a general term for what happens when one part of the body absorbs or draws in another part. A tooth resorption refers specifically to the inflammation and loss of dentin (inner tissue) or cementum (outer material) to absorption.
There are three main types of resorption that may happen to a tooth:
Cervical resorption, which affects the area where the tooth meets the gum. This type of resorption is commonly associated with a history of dental trauma, orthodontic treatment, or internal tooth whitening.
Internal resorption, where “the pink area,” which holds the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels, gets enlarged and dissolves the tooth from the inside out. This process eventually leaves the tooth hollow, which weakens it and makes it susceptible to damage and decay. The first sign of internal resorption a patient notices is usually a pinkish tinge to the tooth, which shows that the internal tissue is affected.
Apical resorption, where the tooth’s root(s) begin to dissolve. This is a normal process when baby teeth are replaced with adult teeth. But when external resorption occurs in an adult tooth, it is a problem. In these cases, the outside root or crown of a permanent tooth is absorbed, it can lead to tooth loss, infection, shifting teeth, and other mouth and jaw problems, unless you receive timely dental attention. If left untreated, the tooth could be lost.
Treatment Options for Tooth Resorption
Many times, resorption can be treated with a root canal procedure. In some cases, surgical care may be required. A highly trained endodontist such as Dr. Verma would be the best person to discuss this with.