Usually external tooth resorption follows trauma to periodontal ligament. Based on clinical and histological manifestations, it can be classified into five categories. Due to the alkaline pH, calcium hydroxide has long been used as an intracanal medicament to slow down the resorption process. Both external and internal resorptions can also occur on the same tooth, making the management more complex. This case report presents the management of a tooth with apical resorption. Apical resorption can be managed both surgically and nonsurgically. In this case, as the tooth itself has created an apical barrier, it was decided not to break the apical seal and to manage it nonsurgically. Follow-up was done for 3 and 6 months respectively.
Fuss Z, Tsesis I, Lin S. Root resorption-diagnosis, classification and treatment choices based on stimulation factors. Dental Traumatol 2003 Aug;19(4):175-182.
Ne RF, Witherspoon DE, Gutmann JL. Tooth resorption. Quintessence Int 1999 Jan;30(1):9-25.
Siqueira JF Jr, Lopes HP. Mechanism of antimicrobial activity of calcium hydroxide: a critical review. Int Endod J 1999 Sep;32(5):361-369.
Fava LR, Saunders WP. Calcium hydroxide pastes: classification and clinical indications. Int Endod J 1999 Aug;32(4): 257-282.
Siqueira JF Jr, Paiva SS, Rocas IN. Reduction in the cultivable bacterial populations in infected root canals by a chlorhexidine based antimicrobial protocol. J Endod 2007 May;33(5):541-547.
Stuart CH, Schwartz SA, Beeson TJ, Owatz CB. Enterococcus faecalis: its role in root canal treatment failure and current concepts in retreatment. J Endod 2006 Feb;32(2):93-98.