Internal root resorption occurs when living cells inside a tooth attack the inside of the tooth and destroy the inside lining of that tooth. Every tooth has a hollow area that contains the tooth nerve and blood vessels. The hollow part inside a tooth crown is called the pulp chamber and the part inside the root is called the root canal. Their contents are removed when root canal therapy is done. Internal root resorption usually begins at the top of a root canal but can also be seen in the pulp chamber and spreads with time.

          Internal root resorption is usually painless and progresses slowly. It is usually found after dental x-rays are taken but when all of a tooth is eaten away, a patient may shatter the tooth before the internal root resorption is found. If it is found early, the cells inside the tooth with internal root resorption can be removed with root canal therapy before causing more damage.

          We do not know exactly why a tooth's cells attack their own tooth but internal root resorption can be associated with a number of things. A history of trauma to the tooth is most common. The insult could be from a blow or from tooth decay. Sometimes and unfinished root canal leaves some damaged living cells that go wild and turn upon their own tooth. A tooth can crack from biting something really hard and the irritation from the crack can slowly kill the tooth and damage the internal cells that cause the internal resorption.

          Internal root resorption is rare because our bodies do not usually turn against themselves. Regular dental care with necessary dental x-rays are important in finding and preventing damage from internal resorption. A full radiographic review should be done for every patient every three years.

          If you are having dental problems and would like to consult with Dr. Smith or Dr. Padolsky, please call and make an appointment at 404-874-7428.