← All explanationsRoot resorption

What does loss of tooth-root tissue mean?

Root resorption is the breakdown of hard root tissue by the body’s cells. In primary teeth it is part of normal tooth replacement; in permanent teeth it may be pathological. Internal and several external forms have different causes and management options.

For dental trainees & teams

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Different from decay

Resorption is cell-mediated breakdown of tooth tissue. It differs from acid-related demineralisation in caries.

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Inside or outside

The process can begin within the canal system or at the external root surface. Injury, inflammation or pressure may play a role depending on the type.

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Type guides care

Examination and appropriate imaging assess location and extent. Not every form is treated with root canal therapy; review is important.

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At a glance

What is lost?

Hard root tissue broken down by the body’s cells.

Who needs assessment?

People with a corresponding permanent-tooth finding, including after injury.

How is care chosen?

By location, extent, cause and progression, with specialist assessment where appropriate.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. Straight to the point.
Explanations are also shown on screen.

Short film (German): What does loss of tooth-root tissue mean?

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Silent film in German · English explanations in the three views above

Often confused

Resorption or root caries?

Resorption is mediated by resorbing cells. Root caries involves mineral loss at accessible root surfaces through carious processes.

Quick answers

Does resorption always hurt?

No. Some changes are first noticed during examination or imaging.

Will lost root tissue regrow?

Lost root structure cannot simply be restored. Depending on the type, care aims to limit progression and preserve the tooth where possible.

Is it normal during tooth replacement?

Resorption of primary roots allows those teeth to be shed. A finding in permanent teeth needs separate assessment.

At the practice

For your consultation

A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:

Which resorption type is present, and what review or treatment suits it?

At the practice, findings, personal wishes and possible next steps are discussed through a consultation and examination.

Existing images and an examination can help clarify an unusual root finding.

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Meet Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour

Learning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge

Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.

Internal resorption: Resorption beginning inside the tooth at the pulp space.
External resorption: Resorption beginning at the outer tooth surface; several subtypes exist.
Replacement resorption: A form in which root tissue is gradually replaced by bone.

Know the difference

Replacement, inflammatory and pressure-related resorption are different. Cause and remaining pulp tissue affect management.

Knowledge questionCan every external resorption be treated by root canal therapy?

This question supports learning. It does not assess personal symptoms.

Yes, whatever the cause.
No, care depends on the type and cause.
Only if the tooth is white.

Show answer and explanation

No, care depends on the type and cause.

Root canal treatment does not fit every resorption type.

Sources for further learning

Sources and context

Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.