The ankylosis of the tooth is defined as the bonding / fusion between a tooth and the alveolar bone. This means that the periodontal ligament is obliterated in one or more locations. There is contact between the cement of a tooth and the alveolar bone. Dental ankylosis is an alteration that is characterized by the fusion of a tooth with the alveolar bone that surrounds it, preventing its dental movement and its development. In this article we will explain everything about this alteration or pathology, how to detect and how to treat it correctly.
The dentoalveolar ankylosis is a disturbance or eruption anomaly involving binding or fusion with bone cement or dental dentin. It originates an obliteration of the dental periodontal ligament and loss of continuity. This will also prevent the tooth from having mobility within its position. In some cases, a re-absorption of cement and dentin can be observed, which are replaced by bone tissue. This alteration can occur at the time of the tooth rash or when the tooth is already erupted.
Dental ankylosis can affect vertical dental development and the development of alveolar bone. There is a higher prevalence of ankylosis in the milk or temporary dentition than in the permanent dentition. Ankylosis is more common in baby teeth, particularly in primary molars.
In an orthopantomography or periapical radiography, the loss or absence of periodontal ligament space can be observed. Dental roots can be seen more radiopaque and it will be difficult to differentiate the border with the alveolar bone that surrounds them. From the infra-occlusion observed, the severity of the ankylosed tooth can be classified. The term infra-occlusion is used to describe this situation. The amount of under-occlusion of an ankylosed tooth depends on the amount in which the ankylosis occurred.
Therefore, it is important that children and adults make periodic visit to the dental clinic.