Ankylosed Tooth - Surya Dental Care
                     March 13, 2025
Ankylosed Tooth – 
Surya Dental Care
Understanding Tooth Ankylosis
Tooth ankylosis is a dental condition where a baby tooth 
becomes fused to the adjacent teeth instead of loosening 
naturally. This fusion occurs when the periodontal ligament is 
destroyed, resulting in the tooth root binding directly to the 
alveolar bone. Although it is most commonly seen in children, 
ankylosed teeth can also occur in adults, leading to various 
complications if not treated promptly.
Causes of Tooth 
Ankylosis
Genetic Factors Trauma or Injury Infection or Inflammation
Genetic predisposition can lead to the Accidental impacts or injuries to teeth Infections in the tissues surrounding the 
destruction of the periodontal ligament, can damage the periodontal ligament, tooth can trigger abnormal bone 
which is crucial for tooth mobility. resulting in tooth ankylosis. growth, causing the tooth to fuse to the 
bone.
Disturbed Eruption Process Orthodontic Stress
Failure of a baby tooth to loosen Excessive force applied during 
properly may prevent the normal orthodontic treatments can, in rare 
eruption of permanent teeth, leading to cases, contribute to the development of 
ankylosis. ankylosis.
Complications of 
Ankylosed Teeth
Misalignment of Teeth Impacted Permanent Teeth Difficulty in Orthodontic Treatment
An ankylosed tooth does not adjust with An ankylosed primary tooth can Braces may be ineffective on ankylosed 
the jaw's growth, resulting in bite obstruct the proper eruption of teeth, as they do not respond to 
irregularities and misalignment. permanent teeth, leading to alignment standard movement forces, 
issues. complicating treatment.
Bone Resorption Issues Facial Asymmetry
Ankylosed teeth can cause bone loss Visible ankylosed teeth can lead to 
around the affected area, complicating facial asymmetry, particularly in 
future dental procedures and impacting children, affecting their appearance and 
jaw health. confidence.
Treatment Options for Ankylosed Teeth
Surgical Subluxation Caps for Deciduous Teeth
A procedure that breaks the fusion between an In rare cases, a dental crown may be placed on 
ankylosed tooth and the bone, allowing for an ankylosed baby tooth temporarily to improve 
normal movement. It requires local anesthesia function and aesthetics, but further treatment is 
and careful follow-up. usually necessary.
Braces for Ankylosed Teeth Alternative Orthodontic Approaches
Braces can be effective in some instances, Methods such as tooth extraction and 
particularly for mild cases. However, severe replacement or distraction osteogenesis may be 
ankylosis may require alternative treatments. considered when traditional braces are 
ineffective.
Surgical Subluxation Process
Assessment Anesthesia Loosening Post-Care
The dentist performs a Local anesthesia is given to The dentist carefully loosens the Post-surgery, the dentist 
thorough exam of the ensure the patient is ankylosed tooth under provides care instructions to 
ankylosed tooth and comfortable and pain-free controlled conditions, promote healing and schedules 
surrounding tissues, using X- during the procedure, separating it from the bone follow-ups to monitor progress 
rays to evaluate the fusion minimizing discomfort during while preserving surrounding and start orthodontic treatment tooth loosening. tissues. if needed.
level.
Dental X-rays Anesthesia consent form Surgical report Post-operative care 
Assessment report Anesthesia application Loosening technique instructions
Surgical plan documentation Follow-up appointment 
schedule
Effectiveness of Braces 
for Ankylosed Teeth
Minor Ankylosis Treatment Surgical Combination Approaches Alternative Orthodontic Methods
Braces may be effective for In cases of severe ankylosis, braces When braces are ineffective, 
patients with minor ankylosis, can be combined with surgical alternative methods such as tooth 
allowing for some tooth movement subluxation to improve treatment extraction or distraction 
and alignment adjustments. outcomes and facilitate better osteogenesis may be considered to 
tooth movement. manage ankylosed teeth.
Preventing 
Tooth 
Ank•yRoultoine dsenitasl checkups are essential for early detection and 
monitoring of any dental anomalies, including tooth ankylosis. 
Regular visits allow dentists to assess tooth development and 
alignment.
• Using protective gear, such as mouthguards during sports or 
physical activities, can help shield teeth from trauma that may 
lead to ankylosis.
• If there are signs of dental issues, such as a baby tooth failing to 
loosen as expected, early intervention is crucial. Consulting a 
dentist promptly can help address potential problems before they 
escalate.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Early detection and treatment of ankylosed teeth 
are crucial in preventing severe complications 
such as misalignment and bone resorption. 
Timely intervention can significantly improve 
dental function and aesthetics. It is essential to 
consult with dental professionals for personalized 
advice and appropriate treatment options 
tailored to individual cases.
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