External resorption. Can nothing be done? (Photo)

Question

I did a 11 month Invisalign in 2015. After that, x ray showed I have external resorption at tooth #12. My dentist is saying he can do nothing about it but monitor. I took another x ray recently and seems not much has change to the resorption area. But I am still very worry about it. Is it really nothing can be done?

Nirav Patel, MDS, PhD · Answer

reason for root resorption in orthodontic treatment is unknown [due to many factors] and unavoidable. it is most common in   apical area.  now it is not progressing so no need to worry. it is most commonly observed after intrusion of teeth.

Joseph H. Hidalgo, DDS · Answer

Hi, Ying.  It does look like external root resorption on your tooth #12. We do not know what the cause of external root resorption is but it its associated with trauma to a tooth. There really is nothing that can be done for the tooth unfortunately. It may be years before you lose the tooth. I would keep it as long as you can. When the time does come to remove it you might want to consider an implant. Remember, that may be years in the future.

External resorption. Can nothing be done? (Photo)

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External resorption. Can nothing be done? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Invisalign

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.