Tooth Root Resorption Conditioned by Orthodontic Treatment

Abstract

The objective of the paper is to analyze the risk factors of root resorption, conditioned by orthodontic treatment, in order to eliminate them, as well as to prevent complications and achieve positive treatment outcome. The scholarly literature analysis was carried out using PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Research Gate database and it totally involved 60 papers published over the period of 2001-2019. The keywords were ‘root resorption; orthodontic treatment; tooth movement; orthodontic force’. The analysis revealed that development of the root resorption conditioned by orthodontic treatment is a common phenomenon which depends on a number of risk factors that are divided into host factors and treatment method factors. Host risk factors crucial for root resorption in the course of orthodontic treatment include teeth with existing root resorption during pretreatment, anterior open bite, abnormal root shape and teeth undergone root canal therapy. Significant risk factors for treatment methods include longer treatment duration, heavy force applied, intrusion and extrusion of premolars. The paper also presents the biomarkers of root resorption. Apical resorptions which are as a rule not infected are mostly stopped by discontinuing orthodontic forces. Cervical resorptions with a bacterial component require surgical intervention with curettage and restorative build-up of the resorbed area. Inflammatory root resorption conditioned by orthodontic treatment is inevitable, though, its progression into severe stage can be prevented in case early measures are taken and provided that the orthodontist is aware of the host factors, treatment risks and biomarkers involved.