Abstract
Background: The application of heavy forces to the dentition, as those produced during a Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME), has been associated in the literature with the development of root resorption of maxillary posterior teeth. Objective: The aim of the present manuscript was to report the available data from in-vitro and in-vivo studies that can elucidate the biological processes of resorption and repair of radicular cementum after RME. Methods: Studies evaluating the occurrence of root resorption after RME by means of histological and radiographic methodology were included. We detailed the changes of the radicular anatomy after RME and provided a synthesis of the most valuable scientific evidence showing the biological processes behind the potential modifications of radicular anatomy. Results. Loss of cementum material and reduction of radicular volumes were seen after rapid maxillary expansion. A small radicular volumetric recovery of anchored teeth occurred after the retention period; this reparative phenomenon was caused by cementum deposition without the reattachment of periodontal fibers, supporting the detrimental effects associated with RR. Conclusion:Retention period and the timing of radiographic examination could influence the extension of radicular resorption detected after RME since root resorption and cementum repair may occur at the same time at this stage.
Highlights
Root Resorption (RR) is defined as the dissolution of cementum and dentin of dental roots, in the form of both a physiologic or pathologic condition [1]
The retention period and the timing of radiographic examination can influence the extension of radicular resorption detected after Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME)
It can be assumed that both RR and cementum repair may occur at the same time during the retention period, with the former process prevailing to an amount that is influenced by several variables such as age, skeletal maturity, biological response and type of maxillary expansion
Summary
Root Resorption (RR) is defined as the dissolution of cementum and dentin of dental roots, in the form of both a physiologic or pathologic condition [1]. Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) is the treatment of choice for the correction of transversal maxillary deficiency and associated crossbite [4, 5] in growing subjects. During RME, heavy forces are transmitted to the maxilla by the anchored teeth. Those forces cause the hyalinization of the periodontal ligament, preventing dental movement and favoring skeletal expansion [6]. Skeletal expansion is reached before orthopedic forces are completely dissipated and, the residual. The application of heavy forces to the dentition, as those produced during a Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME), has been associated in the literature with the development of root resorption of maxillary posterior teeth
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
