Ankylosis in Teeth: Causes and Treatment Options

Ankylosis in teeth is a condition where the teeth fuse to the jawbone, resulting in limited mobility and potential complications. This article explores the causes of ankylosis and provides an overview of available treatment options to effectively address this condition.

One of the primary causes of ankylosis in teeth is dental trauma. Injuries such as fractures or luxation can lead to ankylosis if not promptly and appropriately treated by dental professionals. Traumatic incidents can damage the surrounding structures, disrupting the normal attachment and mobility of the affected teeth.

Untreated dental infections can also contribute to ankylosis. Infection in the gums or surrounding tissues can spread to the periodontal ligament, causing damage and impairing the tooth’s ability to move properly. The resulting fusion between the tooth and the jawbone leads to ankylosis.

Ankylosis may arise as a result of developmental abnormalities during tooth formation. Certain genetic or environmental factors can disrupt the proper eruption and attachment of teeth to the jawbone. These abnormalities can lead to ankylosis, limiting the mobility and functionality of the affected teeth.

Accurate diagnosis is crucial in identifying ankylosis in teeth. Dental professionals employ various methods to assess and diagnose this condition, including a thorough clinical examination, X-rays, and advanced imaging techniques. These diagnostic tools help determine the presence and extent of ankylosis, guiding the appropriate treatment approach.

Orthodontic treatments play a significant role in addressing ankylosis. Frequently, an ankylosed tooth is shorter than the teeth next to it, and often ankylosed teeth can appear to be submerging.  If adjacent teeth have grown over or tipped over an ankylosed tooth, space can be lost.  In these cases, tooth alignment and bites can be compromised.  Often orthodontic treatment is required to align the teeth around the ankylosed tooth to allow access for the tooth to be surgically removed.  After removing the ankylosed tooth, sometimes the space can be closed, and sometimes the bite relationship will dictate the need to close some of the space, but to leave enough space to restore the missing tooth.  These procedures require orthodontic intervention.  

Most cases of ankylosis require surgical intervention. If the ankylosed tooth is a primary tooth, surgical extraction is necessary.  If the ankylosed tooth is a permanent tooth, crown lengthening is a surgical procedure that may be performed to expose more of the ankylosed tooth’s crown, to allow for restoration of the tooth to be level with the bite. In situations where a permanent  ankylosed tooth cannot be effectively treated, extraction may be necessary. After extraction, dental implants can be considered as a means of restoring the missing tooth and improving oral function.

In cases where multiple teeth are ankylosed, treatment can be challenging, prosthetic rehabilitation solutions may be considered. In addition to dental implants, dental bridges or partial dentures can be utilized to restore dental function and aesthetics, helping individuals regain their ability to chew and speak effectively. 

Ankylosis in teeth is a condition that significantly impacts dental functionality and mobility. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for managing this condition effectively. By employing orthodontic interventions, surgical procedures, and rehabilitation strategies, dental professionals can provide comprehensive care to individuals affected by ankylosis. A collaborative approach between dentists, orthodontists, and oral surgeons ensures optimal outcomes and improved oral function for patients with ankylosis in teeth.

Take the first step towards correcting open bites caused by prolonged thumb or finger sucking. Contact our expert team today for a consultation and discover how orthodontics can help restore dental harmony and improve your oral health.