Diagnostic procedure for confirmation of a suspected resorptive defect of the root

Abstract

Three types of external root resorption resulting from luxation injuries of the periodontal structures and the pulp have been described as follows1: ---Surface resorption. Superficial resorption lacunae develop on the root surface, possibly as a response to a localized injury to the periodontal ligament or cementum. This type of resorption is thought to be self-limiting and can show spontaneous repair. -Replacement resorption. Progressive root resorption and disappearance of the periodontal space are seen radiographieally. Histologically, a direct union between bone and root is seen (ankylosis), with the tooth substance being gradually replaced by bone. Inf lammatory resorption. Resorption of the root with adjacent bone destruction is seen radiographically. Microscopic examination shows lacunaeshaped areas of resorption of dentin and cementum with inflammation of the adjacent periodontal tissue. Treatment of external root resorption has been studied extensively, especially inflammatory root resorption~-5; however, little attention has been given to its clinical diagnosis, apart from routine radiographic findings. The latter may be sufficient in the majority of cases, but there are occasional situations in which it is imperative to establish a firm diagnosis in the absence of definitive radiographic findings. The following case illustrates the need for a confirmatory diagnostic procedure when the radiographic findings are only suggestive of external inflammatory root resorption.