Exploring etiologic contributions to the occurrence of external apical root resorption

Introduction: External apical root resorption (EARR) is often an undesirable sequela of orthodontic treatment. Prior studies have suggested a substantial link between EARR and certain genetic components. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may play a role as predisposing factors. This study aimed to investigate the potential association between EARR and various SNPs. Methods: The study included 218 orthodontic participants of all malocclusions who had available pretreatment and posttreatment panoramic radiographs. The most severely affected maxillary incisor on the radiograph was assessed for EARR using a 0-4 categorical scale. DNA was taken from the saliva samples of the participants, and the SNPs were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction and TaqMan chemistry. Statistical testing was performed to verify any associations with EARR (P <0.05). Results: From all genes tested, the rs678397 SNP of ACT3N (P = 0.003) and the rs1051771 SNP of TSC2 (P = 0.03) were significantly associated with EARR. No association could be established between other polymorphisms and EARR. In addition, patients with Class III malocclusion and extended treatment times were at increased risk of developing EARR. Conclusions: Our results support the concept of gene polymorphisms as risk factors in EARR. In particular, a significant association was found between ACT3N and TSC2 and EARR. Clinically, predisposing risk factors for EARR should be assessed for each patient.