What does “External root resorption” mean?
External resorption is the loss of hard tissue from the outside of the tooth. There are several types depending on the cause and location, distinguishing them from internal resorption or cavities.
What factors are involved?
Some forms are associated with trauma, pressure, or inflammation; others begin in the cervical region near the gumline. Resorption does not always have the same cause or progress at the same rate.
What do I test?
Check the history, pulp response, and location and extent of lesions around the root and cervical area. If necessary, additional imaging is performed to examine the relationship between the root canal and the lesion.
Do you always do root canal treatment?
A distinction must be made between types that involve pulp infection and those that do not. Elimination of the cause, treatment of defects, root canal treatment, and observation are determined according to the lesion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a resorbed root grow back?
Lost root tissue does not return to its original state. The assessment considers whether the cause can be addressed and progression reduced to preserve the remaining tooth.
Is root shortening during orthodontic treatment external resorption?
Root-tip resorption can occur in association with orthodontic forces. Changes and their extent on imaging are assessed when deciding the treatment plan, force levels, and monitoring intervals.
Questions to help you understand external resorption
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
Which type of external resorption is present?
Explanation and evidenceDistinguish the location, such as the cervical region or root tip, the cause, and whether pulp infection is involved.
American Association of Endodontists · Differentiating Resorption - A choice suited to your condition
What is the plan for tooth preservation and follow-up?
Explanation and evidenceThe goals of treatment and reexamination are determined according to the remaining tissue and progress status.
American Association of Endodontists · Differentiating Resorption
