Tooth resorption

Occasionally, the root tips of certain teeth can shorten or become blunt during treatment. This is called “root resorption. Light resoption is fairly common during orthodontic treatment but doesn’t affect the quality or lifespan of a tooth. However, severe resorption, although rare, can cause the loss of a tooth. When significant resorption is detected, the orthodontist may have to modify the treatment plan in order to minimize its impact while still achieving acceptable results. It must be understood that orthodontics is not the only cause of root resorption. Trauma, blows to the teeth, impacted teeth, endocrinal or hormonal imbalances, heredity and other unknown factors may also initiate this condition with or without orthodontic treatment. The quality of the teeth and their roots is evaluated prior to treatment and is regularly verified during treatment with radiographs.