A Review of Internal Root Resorption

Abstract

Root resorption is the term used to describe resorption that occurs in the cementum or dentin of a tooth’s root. Resorption is a challenging issue for all dental specialists. The reasons for the rapid erosion of dental tissues are unknown, the diagnosis is educated guesses, and treatment frequently fails to prevent it. Resorption can be observed radiographically even though it cannot be anticipated. Even this diagnostic tool has limits; because resorption on the buccal or lingual surface of the tooth often is not apparent until 20–40% of the tooth structure has been demineralized. Practitioners must be able to diagnose resorption radiographically or clinically, differentiate between internal and external resorption, and initiate the proper treatment to stop the resorption process, because the etiological factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis vary depending on the different types of resorption defects. Thus, the aim of this study is to present etiopathogenesis, a clinical course, and diagnostic peculiarities of internal types of tooth root resorption, enabling practicing dentists to timely diagnose root resorption, and take appropriate measures to avoid further complications.

Key words: Cone-beam computed tomography, internal resorption, mineral trioxide aggregate, root canal treatment