What Is Root Resorption and How Can Endodontic Treatment Repair It?

Root resorption is a condition that can weaken a tooth silently, long before any symptoms appear. In many cases, patients have no idea anything is wrong until it shows up on an X-ray. At Oak Creek Endodontics, our experienced endodontist uses advanced imaging and microsurgical techniques to diagnose and treat root resorption, with the goal of preserving a natural tooth whenever possible.

What Is Root Resorption?

Root resorption occurs when the body’s own cells begin to break down and absorb the structure of a tooth’s root. In children, a version of this process is completely normal: it is how baby teeth loosen to make way for permanent ones. When it happens to a permanent tooth, however, it is a concern that requires evaluation and, in most cases, treatment.

There are two main types of root resorption. Internal resorption originates within a tooth, in the pulp chamber or root canal, and is typically the result of chronic inflammation or prior trauma. External resorption, on the other hand, begins on the outer surface of a tooth’s root and is more common, often associated with pressure from orthodontic treatment, impacted teeth, grinding, cysts, tumors, trauma, infection, and periodontal damage. In some cases, no definite cause can be identified. Both types of resorption can compromise the long-term health and stability of a tooth.

What Are the Warning Signs of Root Resorption?

Root resorption rarely causes noticeable pain or symptoms in its earliest stages. As the condition progresses, symptoms often include tooth sensitivity, a dull ache that comes and goes, discoloration, gum changes near the affected tooth, or increasing tooth mobility. Internal resorption may sometimes create a pinkish discoloration, although many affected teeth remain symptom-free.

Root resorption is often detected on routine dental imaging before the patient notices any symptoms, which is why it’s important to visit your dentist for routine preventive care. The earlier this condition is addressed, the better the long-term outcomes for your smile.

How Is Root Resorption Treated?

Treatment for root resorption may be different for each patient. Our endodontist will start by using 3D CBCT imaging to pinpoint where resorption is occurring, how extensive it is, and whether the tooth is a candidate for repair.

For internal resorption, we may recommend a nonsurgical root canal treatment to remove the overactive tissue that’s causing the breakdown and seal your root canals to stop further damage. External resorption, on the other hand, typically requires more direct access to the tooth root surface. Our endodontist will make a small incision in the gum, carefully remove the affected tissue, thoroughly clean the area, and seal the canals with a biocompatible material that supports the natural healing of the surrounding bone and gum tissue. The last step is suturing the gum back into place.

Sometimes, when there’s an active infection in a tooth, a root canal treatment may be necessary along with surgical repair. The exact treatment depends on your unique needs. We always recommend the most conservative approach to halt the resorption, protect what remains of the root, and preserve the natural tooth for as long as possible.

Root Resorption Repair Near Me in San Antonio, TX

If you require internal or external root resorption repair, you’re in excellent hands. Our experienced endodontist always recommends the most conservative treatments, performing each procedure with specialized skill and expertise. Our goal at Oak Creek Endodontics is to save a natural tooth whenever possible, ensuring your comfort and well-being at every step.

Ready to experience the Oak Creek Endodontics difference? We invite you to call us today at (210) 346-8968 or request an appointment online.