Last updated 09.17.2026
What is tooth resorption?
Learn what tooth resorption is, how internal and external types differ, which signs to watch for and what treatment may involve.
You may have heard the term tooth resorption for the first time from your dentist, maybe after an X-ray turned up something unexpected. Here's what it means: Your body is breaking down part of the tooth's own structure, like the root or inner layer. It can start inside the tooth or on its outer surface. It may cause no pain at first. Left alone, it can weaken the tooth and lead to loss of the tooth.
What you will learn in this article:
Tooth resorption can progress with no pain until it is advanced.
Internal root resorption can begin after damage and inflammation inside the tooth.
Signs may include a pink spot, tooth discoloration, pain or a loose tooth.
Treatment may include a root canal, surgery, monitoring or removing the tooth.
If you've noticed a pink or dark spot on a tooth, or you're worried about a symptom that won't go away, schedule an appointment with an Aspen Dental provider. Your care team can check your teeth and explain what's going on.
What causes internal root resorption?
Internal resorption starts inside the tooth's soft core, called the pulp. The pulp holds nerves and blood vessels.
The American Association of Endodontists explains that internal root resorption usually needs two changes. The protective layer inside the tooth is damaged, then nearby pulp tissue becomes inflamed and activates cells that break down dentin. Trauma, a crack or deep dental work may help start this process.
These cells need living tissue and a blood supply. If the pulp dies completely, the resorption itself may stop. However, that does not mean the tooth has healed. It may still need treatment.¹
What causes external tooth resorption?
External resorption starts on the outside of the root and can take several forms. It may follow a serious tooth injury, an infection inside the tooth, orthodontic tooth movement or pressure from an impacted tooth, cyst or other growth.
A tooth that has been knocked out and placed back in its socket may also be at risk because the injury can damage the root surface. Some types of external resorption have no clear cause.¹
Ask your dental provider which type you may have because the causes and treatment can differ.
What are the signs of tooth resorption?
Tooth resorption often causes no symptoms in its early stages. That is part of what makes it hard to catch on your own.
As it progresses, you may notice:
A change in the tooth's color
Pain or tenderness
A review in Science Progress notes that resorption is often found by chance during a dental X-ray. A dental provider may use X-rays or other imaging to confirm the location and type of resorption.²
How is tooth resorption treated?
Treatment depends on the type of resorption, where it is located, how far it has spread and whether the tooth can be saved. Your dental provider will review your exam and X-rays before recommending treatment.
Internal resorption that has not made a hole through the root may be treated with a root canal. This removes the damaged tissue and cuts off the blood supply that keeps the resorption active. Surgery or special repair material may be needed if the damage has made a hole or cannot be reached through the root canal.
Treatment for external resorption varies. Removing the cause, such as changing orthodontic pressure, may stop some forms. Other cases may require a root canal, surgery, a filling or careful monitoring. If too much tooth structure has been lost, removing and replacing the tooth may be the best option.¹
Every case is different, so ask your dental provider what your X-ray shows and which options fit your situation.
Can tooth resorption be prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent every case of tooth resorption because the cause is not always clear. Protecting your teeth from injury, treating cavities or infections early and keeping up with dental checkups may help lower your risk or find a problem sooner.
Tell your dental provider about any past tooth injuries, orthodontic treatment or tooth-bleaching procedures. Your dental provider can decide whether you need X-rays to watch for changes.
If tooth pain or a color change has you wondering what is going on, do not wait for it to pass on its own. Reach out to your local dental provider to have the tooth checked and discuss your options.
What is tooth resorption? FAQs
Still have questions about tooth resorption? These answers cover a few common concerns.
Is tooth resorption the same as a cavity?
No. A cavity is caused by bacteria eating away at the outer tooth surface. Tooth resorption is caused by your own body's cells breaking down the tooth from inside or along the root. They can look similar on an X-ray, so your dental provider will confirm which one you have.
Is tooth resorption hereditary or contagious?
Tooth resorption is not contagious. You cannot catch it from another person. Trauma, pulp infection, orthodontic treatment and certain tooth-bleaching procedures are known contributing factors, though the exact cause is not always clear.² Your dental provider can help you understand what may have contributed to resorption in your tooth.
What happens if tooth resorption is left untreated?
Without treatment, resorption can progress from a small area to affecting more of the tooth's structure, and in some cases the surrounding bone, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Because it's easy to miss early on, regular dental checkups and X-rays are often what catches it before it advances.
How often should I get dental X-rays to catch this early?
This depends on your personal history and risk factors, so it's best to ask your dental provider directly. They can recommend a schedule based on your mouth and your past dental work.
Can children get tooth resorption?
Yes, it can affect both baby teeth and adult teeth. In baby teeth, some resorption is a normal part of making room for adult teeth. A dental provider can tell the difference between that and a resorption process that needs attention.
Sources
¹ American Association of Endodontists, Communiqué: “Differentiating Resorption.” https://www.aae.org/specialty/differentiating-resorption/
² Science Progress: "Tooth root resorption: A review." https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361577541_Tooth_root_resorption_A_review
