Free Dental Directory of Diseases, Aliments and Solutions

Ankylosis is a dental term for a condition where a primary tooth loses its normal ligament connection to the bone and becomes fused directly to the bone.  This is a fairly common occurrence and is most often seen with lower first molars.

When a primary tooth becomes ankylosed, the following problems develop: 

• When the tooth root fuses to the bone, it no longer grows out at a normal rate with the other teeth.  Because of this, it appears submerged when compared with the other teeth.
  

• The upper teeth need the lower teeth for support.  With an upper tooth "submerged," the opposing upper tooth grows out of the socket and also loses it normal alignment.
  

• The more serious problem has to do with the roots of the ankylosed tooth. About 50% of the time, the roots of the ankylosed tooth fail to normally dissolve as the permanent tooth grows in and the permanent tooth is blocked out of position.

The solution to these problems is the eventual removal of the ankylosed tooth.  Your Dentist will  work with you and your child to determine the best timing for the removal of an ankylosed tooth.

2001 All Rights Reserved