What changes?
The root-to-bone connection.
← All explanationsTooth ankylosis
Why can one tooth appear lower than its neighbours?
In tooth ankylosis, parts of the root are directly fused to surrounding bone, without the normal periodontal-ligament space in those areas. As neighbouring structures continue growing, the tooth may appear lower. Not every low-positioned tooth is ankylosed.
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An altered connection
Normally, a periodontal ligament lies between root and bone. Ankylosis involves areas of direct contact.
Growth reveals the difference
In children, infraocclusion may become noticeable. The tooth is not simply actively sinking into the jaw; the surroundings continue developing.
Successor and progression
Primary teeth, permanent teeth and post-trauma situations require different plans. Space, the successor and growth guide management.
Read the full explanation
An altered connection
Normally, a periodontal ligament lies between root and bone. Ankylosis involves areas of direct contact.
Growth reveals the difference
In children, infraocclusion may become noticeable. The tooth is not simply actively sinking into the jaw; the surroundings continue developing.
Successor and progression
Primary teeth, permanent teeth and post-trauma situations require different plans. Space, the successor and growth guide management.
Notes on the teaching images
- Simplified teaching model: a local root-to-bone connection on the right.
- Not a growth comparison: infraocclusion develops relative to the surrounding tissues.
- Symbolic image: tooth type, growth and any successor determine management.
At a glance
In children?
Consider growth and the successor.
After trauma?
Attend scheduled follow-up.
Knowledge in motion
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Silent educational film with German on-screen text and simplified teaching images. Not a patient case or a promised treatment outcome. The full English explanation is available as text.
Often confused
Ankylosis and impaction
Ankylosis describes a tissue connection. Impaction describes failure to erupt normally and may have other causes.
Quick answers
Can more force move the tooth?
Not simply. An ankylosed tooth does not respond like a normally supported tooth. Do not increase forces yourself.
Must it always be removed?
No. Monitoring, restoration or other measures depend on findings and development.
Can it happen after dental trauma?
Yes, particularly after severe injury to the root surface. This is one reason follow-up after trauma matters.
At the practice
For a personal discussion
Editorially suggested question to discuss with Dr Niusha Barahmand Pour:
How do growth and the successor affect the plan for this tooth?
A low-positioned primary tooth or change following trauma needs assessment.
Have tooth position checkedAppointment selection at DoctolibLearning layer for training & practiceUnderstand terminology and deepen knowledge
- Periodontal ligament
- Fibrous supporting tissue between root and bone.
- Infraocclusion
- A tooth lies below the neighbouring biting level.
- Replacement resorption
- Root tissue is replaced by bone during remodelling.
Make the distinction
Ankylosis describes a tissue connection. Impaction describes failure to erupt normally and may have other causes.
Sources and context
Editorial research: . General information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Teaching illustrations are simplified and do not depict a patient case.