Tooth resorption is when the living body cells attack and destroy part of a tooth. If the resorption is limited to the root of a tooth, it is called root resorption. The tooth root can be attacked from either inside or outside of the root. The body's inflammatory killer cells think that the tooth root is a foreign body and attack and remove the root exactly the same way these cells remove foreign bodies.

         If the damage is from inside the root working its way out, it is called internal root resorption. This type of resorption is often difficult to treat because it creates round hollow areas inside the root and root canal instruments are not designed to clean these areas out.

         If the damage started on the outside of the root and works its way inside the tooth root, it is called external root resorption. External root resorption can usually can not be treated with the common result being the extraction of the involved tooth.

          The dentists at the Atlanta Dental Group PC are dedicated to their patients' good health and well being. You are welcome to join our family of patients. If you are having dental problems and would like to consult with Atlanta Dentist, Dr. Mark Padolsky, please call and make an appointment at 404-874-7428.