Can a Reabsorbed Tooth Be Saved
Dental issues can always be scary but fortunately, there is always a solution! Tooth resorption is one such a dental issue that is common and often occurs as a result of injury or trauma to a tooth. Resorption is when the tooth is essentially rejected by the body and begins to be absorbed as a defense move by the body. It can also happen when orthodontic treatment is progressed through too quickly.
Can a reabsorbed tooth be saved?
The first part of the tooth to be reabsorbed by the body is typically the roots but your dentist still may be able to save the tooth. Oftentimes, a root canal is advised so your dentist may refer you to an endodontist to receive treatment. A root canal is a treatment used to remove infected pulp and is very effective at relieving pain. The pulp of the tooth is the tissue within each canal which holds the nerves and blood supply for the tooth.
Root Canal Procedure
A root canal can usually be performed in one visit but if there are multiple canals or extensive infection, you may require a second visit. The endodontist will apply a topical numbing salve to the soft tissue around the infected tooth before administering a local anesthetic via injection to fully numb the entire area. They may use a bite block to prop your mouth open which makes the process more comfortable for the patient because they do not have to focus on holding their mouth open the whole time.
Once you are numb, they will begin treatment by drilling a small access hole straight through the tooth into the pulp. Small cylindrical files are used to clear out the infected pulp tissue then an antimicrobial solution is applied to kill any remaining bacteria and to keep the tooth from becoming reinfected.
The canals are then dried with air and filled with a rubbery material called gutta-percha and the access hole is covered with a temporary filling. After a couple of weeks, you will see your dentist to have the temporary filling removed and a permanent filling or crown placed.
Extraction
While root canal therapy is very successful in treating tooth resorption, a tooth may still need to be extracted if the resorption is too far along. When a tooth is extracted, your dentist will help you determine what replacement option will best suit your needs and lifestyle.
You may not be able to avoid tooth resorption but if you can see your dentist as soon as you experience dental trauma, even if you do not have any pain, you have a better chance of making sure that everything is healthy or to start treatment right away. Any changes to your oral health should be addressed by your dentist as soon as possible.