More than 75% of American adults admit that they have a fear of going to the dentist. Maintaining oral health, however, is the key to overcoming a host of diseases. If you’ve been diagnosed with condensing osteitis, there is no need to be afraid of treatment.
Condensing osteitis is a rare condition that involves abnormal bone growth in the mouth. It doesn’t carry any outward symptoms, but a dentist can see the growths and lesions on X-rays.
During the initial consultation, dentists take X-rays of their patients’ teeth. This allows them to diagnose and begin treatment right away. There are treatments for condensing osteitis, and the dentist will decide which course of action to take.
Causes of Condensing Osteitis
There are several possible causes of abnormal bone growth in the mouth including inflammation and infection. Patients don’t typically notice any symptoms, although there can be some pain. Condensing osteitis is so rare that there is not a lot of research on the disease.
If the condition does stem from an active mouth infection, patients might notice some of the following symptoms:
- Halitosis
- Bleeding from the gums
- Metallic or bitter taste
- Sudden pain
Again, condensing osteitis does not usually carry any symptoms, so regular dental checkups are a must. Untreated, this condition can cause permanent damage to the teeth and gums.
Treatments for Osteitis
There are three treatment options for condensing osteitis, and the bone growth can slow or clear. Long-term, tooth extraction may be the best way to manage this condition.
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Extraction
Nobody wants to get teeth extracted, and dentists will do everything they can to save teeth. If the bone growth is too severe, the danger is that infection or bone growth will affect the inner part of the tooth, called the pulp. If the pulp is damaged, it may cause a life-threatening abscess.
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Root canal
Another approach to treating condensing osteitis is one or more root canals. This procedure removes the pulp at the center of the tooth, which is a mass of soft tissue. Dentists perform root canals instead of extractions as a last-ditch effort to save the tooth.
The problem with root canals is that the extraction process can damage the tooth. If the teeth get too weak, they can’t support the gums. Dentists have to be strategic about root canal placements.
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Monitoring
If root canals and extractions would not be beneficial for the patient, then dentists will do nothing. Patients with active infections, for example, should wait until they are clear to undergo dental work.
In general, dentists require their patients to be free of infection before scheduling a procedure. This helps speed the recovery process and allows the body to focus on healing. Biological dentistry always takes patients’ overall health into account and does not allow unnecessary surgeries.
Holistic Care Begins With Good Oral Health
Our friendly team at Well Rooted Dentistry is ready to answer your questions. We have experienced dentists, oral surgeons, and dental assistants who are happy to assist you.
We know that some people tend to avoid the dentist and for good reason. Our approach is gentle and centered around our patients’ comfort and security. Let us show you what we can do to address your condensing osteitis.
Give us a quick call at (401) 443-4007 to schedule your first visit. We are currently accepting patients and look forward to meeting with you.
