Dental Ankylosis: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is dental ankylosis?
Dental ankylosis is a condition in which the periodontal ligament disappears and the tooth root fuses directly with the alveolar bone. As a result, the tooth no longer responds to normal eruptive forces, which can lead to malocclusion and dental alignment problems.
Causes of dental ankylosis
🔹 Dental trauma: Blows to primary teeth can affect the development of the permanent tooth germ.
🔹 Genetic factors: Hereditary predisposition can influence the appearance of ankylosis.
🔹 Chronic inflammation or infections: Prolonged inflammatory processes can induce the fusion of the tooth with the bone.
🔹 Alterations in bone metabolism: Systemic diseases that affect bone remodeling can contribute to ankylosis.
Symptoms and diagnosis
✅ Tooth that appears “submerged” while others continue to erupt.
✅ Lack of mobility of the affected tooth.
✅ Difference in bite height.
✅ In severe cases, malocclusion and facial asymmetry.
Diagnosis is confirmed by X-rays, which show the absence of the periodontal ligament around the root of the affected tooth.
Treatment options
Treatment varies according to the patient's age and the impact of ankylosis on masticatory function:
✔️ Monitoring in mild cases where it does not affect the eruption of adjacent teeth.
✔️ Extraction of the ankylosed tooth if it prevents the eruption of other teeth.
✔️ Orthodontics in combination with surgery to regain lost space.
✔️ Dental implants in adults when extraction is inevitable.
Prognosis and complications
If ankylosis is not treated in time, it can lead to functional and aesthetic problems, including open bite, mandibular deviation, and bone loss in the affected area.
Conclusion
Dental ankylosis is a rare condition but one that has a significant impact on dental alignment and function. Early detection and appropriate treatment can prevent severe malocclusions and facilitate dental rehabilitation.
Legal Notice and Disclaimer
This article is part of ONAK's Dictionary of Medical Terms and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for consulting with a dentist.
Bibliography
- Raghoebar, G. M., Boering, G., Vissink, A. "Treatment options for ankylosed teeth." Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 1991; 20(3): 149-153. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2072166/
- Andreasen, J. O., Malmgren, B., Tsukiboshi, M. "Dental trauma guide: ankylosis and tooth loss." Dent Traumatol. 2011; 27(5): 331-335. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21883978/
