When a tooth undergoes root resorption, the body’s immune system dissolves the tooth root structure. According to the Cochrane Library, root resorption can happen internally and externally and may lead to loosening or tooth loss. In terms of losing baby teeth, the process is the same: when a tooth is ready to fall out, the body gives the signal to have the bone between the new permanent tooth and the old baby tooth waste away along with the root of the baby tooth. Eventually, the baby tooth falls out, leaving a space for the new permanent tooth to erupt in its place.
When root resorption happens outside of losing baby teeth, it’s likely due to tooth nerve or gum infection, tooth movement due to orthodontic treatment, impacted teeth, or chronic teeth grinding. However, in some rare cases, the cause is unknown. Root resorption symptoms can come in the form of pain, swelling, and loosening of your teeth. However, most cases are asymptomatic.
Dental professionals most often find root resorption in people between the ages of 21 and 30. This condition is also more prevalent in women than men. Systemic diseases and endocrine disorders, like hyperparathyroidism, Paget’s disease, calcinosis, Gaucher’s disease, and Turner’s syndrome, can also be contributing causes to root resorption. Rarely, root resorption is caused by pressure from a tumor.
Because there are so many specific causes, root resorption treatment is widely varied. Your dental professional will likely order imaging tests to understand your case better and how serious it is. For treatments, mild cases might involve treating symptoms such as swelling and pain relief. If you’re experiencing a more mild case, your dental professional may recommend treatment like a root canal or tooth extraction.
The best way to treat root resorption is to prevent it. Keep your regular dental appointments with your dental professional so they can catch dental problems early. Remember to keep up with good dental hygiene habits, including 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.
It’s a fact: oral health issues happen. Luckily, the best treatment is early detection. The sooner you discover any oral health issues, the sooner you can get treatment from your dental professional—and get your smile back to its healthy, confident state.
Oral Care Center articles are reviewed by an oral health medical professional. This information is for educational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your dentist, physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
ORAL HEALTH QUIZ
Take our Oral Health assessment to get the most from your oral care routine
Adult Oral Care
3 Teeth Replacement Options: What's Right For You?Don't know what to do about a lost tooth? Knowing all your teeth replacement options will help get your smile up and running again. Find out more, here.
Adult Oral Care
What Are The Different Parts Of A Tooth?What are the different parts of a tooth? Learn about the types of teeth that make up your smile and the different parts of a tooth at Colgate® Oral Care.
Adult Oral Care
Periodontal Disease and Pregnancy: What's the Connection?There is a link between periodontal disease and pregnancy. Here's what expecting mothers should know to maintain optimal oral health.
Adult Oral Care
Toothpaste on Burns: Does This Home Remedy Work?Is putting toothpaste on burns ever a good idea? Here's why you might want to rethink a popular home remedy and burn treatment and learn more.
Power away plaque with Colgate Total Battery Powered Toothbrush. This battery operated toothbrush for adults fights the root cause* of cavities, plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, tartar buildup**, and stains***. Plus, this battery toothbrush has a built in 2 minute timer and features two cleaning modes, Sensitive and Regular, to cater to your unique oral care needs.
Colgate Total Active Prevention Whitening Toothbrush is a soft toothbrush with charcoal infused spiral and Floss-Tip bristles (1). This soft bristle toothbrush fights the root cause* of cavities, plaque, gingivitis, bad breath, tartar buildup**, and stains*** and also helps remove surface stains to prevent stain buildup.
