Ankylosis

Definition

Definition of Ankylosis
Ankylosis or anchylosis is a stiffness of a joint due to abnormal adhesion and rigidity of the bones of the joint, which may be the result of injury or disease. The rigidity may be complete or partial and may be due to inflammation of the tendinous or muscular structures outside the joint or of the tissues of the joint itself. Noma - a gangrenous disease still widespread among malnourished children living on the borders of the Sahara desert - can cause ankylosis of the maxilla and mandible, impairing the ability to speak and eat.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Ankylosis
Some of the signs of ankylosis may include:

1. The ankylosed tooth appears submerged because its roots don't grow at same rate as other teeth.
2. The opposing tooth visibly loses alignment as it grows out of its socket.
3. The permanent tooth is blocked out of position because the primary tooth's roots failed to dissolve normally.

Often we can diagnose ankylosis simply through observation. For example, a tooth noticeably lower in growth is a tell-tale sign of ankylosis. Also, with x-rays taken at regular checkups, we can view the development of permanent teeth that may be blocked by the primary teeth's roots.

Causes

Causes of Ankylosis
The causes for ankylosis vary; for example, the healthy ligament cells may dry up and die because of:

1. Inflammation or infection
2. Problems with metabolism or normal bone growth
3. Congenital tendencies
4. Gaps in the membranes around the tooth
5. Abnormal pressure from the tongue
6. Crushing or other damage

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Ankylosis
A dentist or oral surgeon will diagnose the severity of ankylosis by observing the degree to which mouth opening is inhibited. X-rays or other imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI can determine abnormalities in the bony or soft tissue formations in the joint.

Treatment

Treatment of Ankylosis
Jaw exercises may temporarily help to decrease the immobility of the joint in some ankylosis cases, but in most cases treatment of ankylosis will require surgery.

Treatment of ankylosis of the jaw joint involves open surgery to remove the condyle, the rounded end of the lower jaw bone that forms the TMJ. The removed condyle is then replaced with a prosthetic condyle. After the surgery, extensive physical therapy usually plays a crucial role in restoring proper TMJ function.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Ankylosis
Consult with your doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of Ankylosis
Consult with your doctor.