Resorption is a condition associated with either a physiologic or a pathologic process resulting in a loss of dentin, cementum, and/ or bone. There are a variety of types of resorption which are each treated in different ways.
External Resorption
External resorption is resorption initiated in the periodontium and initially affecting the external surfaces of a tooth. This type of resorption may be further classified as surface, inflammatory, or replacement, or, by location, as cervical, lateral or apical. External resorption may or may not invade the dental pulp space.
Internal Resorption
Internal resorption is an inflammatory process initiated within the pulp space with loss of dentin and possible invasion of the cementum.
Inflammatory Resorption
Inflammatory resorption is an internal or external pathologic loss of tooth structure and possibly bone, resulting in a defect. It occurs as the result of microbial infection; characterized radiographically by radiolucent areas along the root.
Cervical Resorption
A cervical resorption is a type of resorption that usually occurs in the coronal third of the root. Cervical resorption is a relatively uncommon form of resorption.
Replacement Resorption (Ankylosis)
Replacement resorption, otherwise known as ankylosis, is a pathologic loss of cementum, dentin, and periodontal ligament with subsequent replacement of such structures with bone, resulting in fusion of bone and tooth.
Using Root Canals to Treat Resorption
Depending on the type of damage, a root canal can be used to treat resorption. Generally speaking, if the resorption is discovered before a fissure of the root occurs, root canal therapy can be used to treat resorption with a fairly high expected success rate.
For those suffering resorption within the Greater Houston area, Gulf Coast Endodontics provides quality Houston root canals. Call for more information, today.