Can you Fix Tooth Resorption?
Tooth resorption is a process in which the bone tissue surrounding the teeth is lost. It can occur in different parts of your mouth, such as the roots or the alveolar bone that holds the teeth in place.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms of dental bone resorption include:
- Tooth sensitivity: Exposure of dentin due to bone loss can cause tooth sensitivity to cold, hot, or sweet foods and drinks.
- Tooth mobility: Teeth may become loose or move due to loss of bone support.
- Dental pain: May cause discomfort or pain in the teeth or gums.
- Changes in dental appearance: Teeth may appear longer as gingival recession occurs due to bone loss.
- Gaps between teeth: Bone loss can result in teeth separating, which can affect biting and chewing function.
- Gum inflammation: It can cause inflammation and redness of the gums, known as gingivitis or periodontitis.
- Tooth abscesses: Bacterial infection in the soft tissues around affected teeth can cause tooth abscesses, which are characterized by swelling, tenderness, and pain.
Causes of dental bone resorption
The causes can be various and can cause dental mobility, tooth loss, and even affect the facial structure.
Periodontal disease
Periodontitis is a chronic, generally painless oral pathology caused by bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria gradually build up in the gums, causing not only gingivitis, but also bone loss around the teeth. This loss of bone mass is irreversible, although periodontal therapy can prevent it. For this reason, it is important to periodically see a specialist.
Dental trauma
Trauma, such as blows or injuries to the mouth, can damage the bone tissue of the teeth, which can result in bone resorption.
Dental infections
Bacterial dental infections in the teeth or roots can cause inflammation and damage to the surrounding bone tissue, which can lead to this problem.
Bruxism
Bruxism, which is involuntary grinding or clenching of the teeth, can put excessive pressure on the teeth and surrounding bone, which can cause bone resorption.
Malocclusion
A misaligned bite or malocclusion can cause abnormal tooth wear and uneven pressure on the alveolar bone, which may also contribute.
Genetic factors
Some people may have a genetic predisposition to dental bone resorption, making them more susceptible to developing this condition.
Use of removable prostheses
Another cause is the use of “removable dentures”. Because these prostheses are not fixed, they rub and wear down the bone on which they are supported, gradually destroying it and making the subsequent insertion of teeth with implants difficult.
Osteoporosis
It is not very common, but patients with major osteoporosis problems may also suffer more alveolar bone resorption.
Aging
It's natural, we all age, and so do our teeth and gums.
Treatment of dental bone resorption
Early detection and intervention are key to minimizing the impact of bone resorption on oral health. Treatment will depend on the cause and severity of the case. Some treatment options may include:
Periodontal treatment
If bone resorption is caused by periodontal disease, treatment may involve professional cleanings, scaling and root planning, and possibly periodontal surgery to eliminate inflammation and promote healing of bone tissue.
Endodontics
If bone resorption is associated with infections in the roots of the teeth, root canal or endodontic treatments may be necessary to eliminate the infection and save the tooth.
Oral surgery
In advanced cases of bone resorption, it may be necessary to perform maxillofacial surgery to restore lost bone tissue and improve dental stability.
Correction of malocclusion
If bone resorption is related to a misaligned bite, orthodontic treatments, such as braces or clear aligners such as Invisalign, may be recommended to correct tooth alignment and reduce pressure on the alveolar bone.
Dental implants
In cases of tooth loss due to bone resorption, dental implants can be an effective treatment option to restore dental function and aesthetics.