Severe root resorption and orthodontic treatment: Clinical implications after 25 years of follow-up

Stability and prognosis of teeth with severe root resorption is problematic in orthodontics. Because severe root resorption, when it occurs in orthodontic patients, is an iatrogenic consequence of treatment, periodic analysis for all patients is encouraged. This article reports a case of severe root resorption 25 years after the completion of orthodontic treatment. The root resorption did not exhibit significant progression and the patient had a healthy periodontal status. Orthodontic patients with sharp, pointed roots who require premolar extraction might have a greater risk of severe root resorption. (Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop 2011; 139:S166-9)