Root Resorption
What is Root Resorption?
Why Does Resorption Happen in Adults?
What Does Root Resorption Look Like?
It is most common for root resorption to begin on the outside of a tooth near the gum line and work its way inward in a process called external cervical resorption (ECR). Pink spots are a common indicator that ECR is taking place. The eventual effects appear as holes, or cavity-like areas, at the gum line of the tooth.
Not nearly as common as ECR, internal resorption begins in the root of the tooth and is often due to chronic pulp inflammation. Because resorption is usually asymptomatic, most patients are unaware of their condition until well into the resorption process.
How is Root Resorption Treated?
If the initial pink spots on the tooth’s enamel are spotted and treated in time, no further dental care should be necessary. If, however, the enamel has experienced enough damage that cavities have resulted, root canal therapy may be needed. Extraction and dental implant procedures are required in the rare case that decay has affected the tooth pulp.
Since resorption is usually asymptomatic, detecting its presence in the initial stages isn’t always easy. Nonetheless, early treatment is crucial when it comes to saving the tooth, and as endodontists, our primary concern is to save your natural teeth. Call us at the first sign of root decay or resorption, so we can safely and gently provide you with the best possible care for maintaining your oral health well into the future.