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 It’s Never too Late to Straighten Your Smile

Braces as an adult? No way. At least, that was what I thought when my dentist told me that I was going to have to see an orthodontist about my crooked teeth. But my teeth were so misaligned that they were causing me pain when I chewed, so I decided to at least look into it. Turns out braces today are nothing like the ones my friends had when I was a kid. Mine were practically invisible, and I didn't need to wear them that long. I started this blog to encourage other people like me who are nervous about the prospect of wearing braces as an adult. My straight smile is so worth the trips to the orthodontist, and wearing braces was nowhere near as bad as I thought. Read on to find out more about how you can straighten your smile.

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It’s Never too Late to Straighten Your Smile

5 Things You Should Know About Root Resorption

by Jacqueline Byrd

Did you recently have a visit to the dentist where you were told that you have an issue with root resorption? If so, you may have some questions about this dental problem and what you need to do about it. 

What Is Root Resorption?

Root resorption is a condition where the root of a tooth will dissolve or erode, causing it to essentially disintegrate. It can cause the root left behind to be shorter or weaker, which will affect the health of the tooth.  

Can You See Root Resorption?

Unfortunately, it's not possible to tell if you have an issue with root resorption, because it happens on the inside of the tooth. The only way that your dentist is able to tell that it is happening is if they take an X-ray. Some people may have physical symptoms that indicate a problem with root resorption, but it is not something that can actually be seen without an X-ray. 

Are There Different Types Of Root Resorption?

Your dentist may use the terms external and internal root resorption, which are two ways that it can happen. If you have internal root resorption, it means that the root is dissolving from the inside out. The canal of the root will widen and eventually weaken the tooth's overall structure. External root resorption happens the opposite way, which starts at the outside of the root and goes inward. This will look like a very thin root in an X-ray. 

Why Does Root Resorption Happen?

There are a few ways that root resorption can happen to a tooth. However, a common way is due to trauma, such as someone getting hit in the face while playing sports. The impact can cause damage to the nerve within the tooth, and it potentially takes months or years for root resorption to happen. That's why it's important to let your dentist know so that they can monitor the tooth. 

Root resorption can also happen when using braces (if the teeth move too quickly), when you experience gum damage, have gum disease, or have nerve damage.

How Do You Treat Root Resorption?

If root respiration is serious and causes your teeth to be loose, steps will be taken to try to save the tooth. You could be required to wear a retainer, use a splint, or get a root canal to save the tooth. If the tooth needs to be removed, a dental bridge or implant can be used to replace the tooth. 

Contact a local dental service, such as Smile Solutions LLC, to learn more.

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