Baby teeth can get stuck primarily due to a condition called ankylosis.
What is Ankylosis?
Ankylosis is a condition where a tooth fuses directly to the surrounding bone, preventing its natural shedding or eruption. Although it can happen to adults, it's about 10 times more common in baby (primary) teeth.
Why Ankylosis Causes Teeth to Get Stuck:
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Bone Fusion | The primary reason is that the tooth becomes directly attached to the nearby alveolar bone. |
| Impeded Eruption | This fusion prevents the normal process of the permanent tooth pushing the baby tooth out. |
| Lack of Shedding | Since the tooth is essentially "stuck" to the bone, it cannot loosen and fall out as it should. |
How Ankylosis is Detected
- Delayed Tooth Loss: Often, ankylosis isn't noticeable until a child doesn't lose a baby tooth within the expected timeframe.
- Uneven Teeth: Neighboring teeth may tilt or shift, and the permanent tooth may be blocked from coming in.
- Dental Examination: A dentist can diagnose ankylosis through clinical examination and X-rays.
In essence, when baby teeth become ankylosed, they essentially become a part of the jawbone, preventing them from naturally falling out to make way for permanent teeth. This can lead to various dental issues if not addressed.
