Odontonecrosis is a medical condition that affects the teeth and can lead to their death. The spelling of this word can be broken down phonetically as /əʊdɒntoʊˈnɛkrəʊsɪs/. The "o" and "e" vowels are pronounced as a diphthong, while the "c" is pronounced as an "s" sound before the "n." The "c" is also pronounced with a "ch" sound before the "r." Lastly, the "o" before "-necrosis" is pronounced with a schwa sound. Proper spelling of medical terms is crucial for clear communication between healthcare professionals.
Odontonecrosis is a medical term that refers to the death or destruction of dental tissue, specifically in the teeth. The condition is characterized by the decay and necrosis of the hard tissues of the tooth, including enamel, dentin, and sometimes the pulp. This can result in significant pain, infection, and potentially tooth loss.
Odontonecrosis most commonly occurs as a result of a lack of blood supply to the tooth, which can be caused by various factors such as trauma, infection, or prolonged exposure to certain medications, particularly bisphosphonates. Bisphosphonate-associated odontonecrosis is a specific type of odontonecrosis that is associated with the prolonged use of these medications, often used to treat bone disorders such as osteoporosis or cancer.
Symptoms of odontonecrosis may include persistent toothache, swelling and redness in the gums, loose teeth, and the appearance of a draining sinus tract near the affected tooth. Treatment options for odontonecrosis may vary depending on the severity of the condition, but they typically involve addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms. This may include the use of antibiotics to treat any associated infections, pain management, and in some cases, the extraction of the affected tooth.
Early detection and prompt treatment of odontonecrosis are crucial to prevent further complications and potential loss of teeth. Regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, and discussing any concerns with a dental professional can help in the prevention and early intervention of this condition.
The death of the whole or a large part of a tooth, as distinguished from caries, or molecular death.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "odontonecrosis" is derived from two Greek terms: "odonto" meaning "tooth" and "necrosis" meaning "death" or "tissue decay". Therefore, the term "odontonecrosis" refers to the death or decay of tooth tissue.