Root resorption is a process in which the tissues surrounding a tooth begin to break down the root surface and replace it with soft tissue. This destructive process can affect both children and adults, and because it is usually painless, it often goes unnoticed until a dental X-ray reveals the problem.
What Causes Root Resorption?
Several factors can trigger root resorption:
1. Trauma or Injury
A blow to the mouth or an accident can damage the tissues around a tooth. During healing, the body may mistakenly break down part of the root.
2. Internal Resorption
Inflammation inside the pulp chamber can lead to the body attacking the tooth from the inside out. This is often discovered incidentally on routine X-rays.
3. Gum Disease
Severe periodontal inflammation may cause the body’s immune cells to misidentify the root surface as a foreign object, resulting in external resorption.
4. Orthodontic Treatment
Braces and aligners apply pressure to move teeth. In some patients, this can lead to a shortening of the roots over time.
5. Pressure From Nearby Teeth or Cancer
The eruption of canines or wisdom teeth, or the presence of a cancer, can press against neighboring teeth and trigger resorption.
Why Early Detection Matters
Because root resorption is typically painless, it may progress silently for months or years. Routine dental X-rays are essential to detect it early.
Once identified, determining the cause is critical. By removing or treating the underlying reason—whether inflammation, pressure, or trauma—we can often stop the resorption and preserve the affected tooth.
If left untreated, however, resorption can progress to the point where the tooth may need to be extracted.
Concerned About Root Resorption?
If you have questions about tooth resorption or would like your teeth assessed, please don’t hesitate to contact Dr Kaufman 👉Call or book online Tooronga Family Dentistry on (03) 9822 7006 so we can help you quickly. We are here to help protect your teeth and maintain your long-term oral health.
📍 We proudly care for the smiles of the Glen Iris, Tooronga, Malvern and Hawthorn East communities.