Ankylosis of teeth is a condition in which the teeth become fused to the jawbone and unable to move. This condition is often caused by trauma, infection, or a genetic predisposition. The fusion of the teeth to the jawbone can cause a variety of symptoms, including difficulty in chewing, speaking, and breathing. The cause of the ankylosis needs to be identified and treated in order to reduce the symptoms.
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of ankylosis of teeth can be divided into two main categories: mechanical and biological.
Mechanical: This is the most common cause of ankylosis of teeth. It is caused by the destruction of the periodontal ligament that holds the teeth in place. This can be caused by trauma, such as a blow to the face or a fall, or by a prolonged period of grinding or clenching of the teeth. This leads to the teeth fusing to the bone and becoming immovable.
Biological: In some cases, ankylosis of teeth can be caused by a biological process. This is usually due to an infection or a genetic predisposition. In these cases, the body’s immune system can cause the periodontal ligament to be destroyed, leading to the ankylosis of the teeth.
Treatment
Treatment for ankylosis of teeth depends on the cause. For mechanical ankylosis, the affected teeth may need to be surgically removed. For biological ankylosis, the underlying cause needs to be addressed and treated. In some cases, the ankylosed teeth may be able to be saved with orthodontic treatment.