Decision criteria influencing the therapeutic approach to invasive cervical resorption: a case series.

Invasive cervical resorption (ICR) is a dental lesion starting in the cervical region and involving the loss of dental hard tissue as a result of odontoclastic action. Due to its localization and invasive pattern, this process represents a challenging clinical situation. When feasible, the major aim of an ICR treatment is to completely remove the pathologic tissue (specifically at the entry point of the lesion) and to seal the resulting defect, without compromising tooth rehabilitation. In this context, choosing how to access the resorptive lacuna is essential. Two main options have been described in the literature: an external approach, requiring the surgical exposure of the resorptive lacuna, and an internal approach, taking advantage of the endodontic access cavity. However, there are no guidelines that indicate which approach to choose for the treatment of an ICR. This article is based on four clinical cases. It aims to provide specific clinical and radiologic features that should be considered in order to take the most appropriate decision, when choosing between the internal and the external approaches. It is proposed to base the therapeutic strategy on the accessibility and the size of the portal of entry of the lesion. When the entry point is wide, its extension along the root must also be taken into account. Other important parameters are the circumferential and vertical extents of the lesion in the radicular dentin. Although it is not a determining factor, the pulpal involvement of the lesion can also be considered.

Prevalence and risk factors of root resorption of adjacent teeth in maxillary canine impaction, among untreated children and adolescents.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this retrospective study was to assess in maxillary canine impaction cases both the prevalence of root resorption of adjacent teeth among untreated children and adolescents, and its associated risk factors. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Sixty subjects (mean age 12.2 years; SD 1.9; range 8-17 years) with 83 displaced maxillary canines and without any past or ongoing orthodontic treatment were included in this study. The presence of root resorption was evaluated on images from a single cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) unit. Potential risk factors were measured on the CBCT images and on panoramic reconstructions of the 3D data sets. The sample was characterized by descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regressions were performed to predict root resorption. RESULTS: Root resorption of at least one adjacent tooth was detected in 67.5 per cent of the affected quadrants. It was found that 55.7 per cent of the lateral incisors, 8.4 per cent of the central incisors, and 19.5 per cent of first premolars were resorbed. Of the detected resorptions, 71.7 per cent were considered slight, 14.9 per cent moderate, and 13.4 per cent severe. Contact between the displaced canine(s) and the adjacent teeth roots was the only identified statistically significant risk factor, all teeth being considered (odds ratio [OR] = 18.7, 95% confidence interval: 2.26-756, P < 0.01). An enlarged canine dental follicle, a peg upper lateral, or an upper lateral agenesis were not significantly associated with root resorption of adjacent teeth, nor were age nor gender. CONCLUSIONS: Root resorption of adjacent teeth was detected in more than two-thirds of a sample of sixty untreated children and adolescents.