Localized idiopathic root resorption in the primary dentition: Review of the literature and a case report

Management of internal and external root resorption in primary teeth of a 3-year-old with myelomeningocele: A case report

BACKGROUND

Myelomeningocele (MMC) is a severe manifestation of spina bifida. Children with MMC have motor disability, hydrocephalus, skeletal abnormalities, and mental retardation. These individuals are more susceptible to caries due to poor oral hygiene, carbohydrate-rich diet, prolonged use of sugar-containing medications and limited motor abilities. Latex allergy is an important factor to be considered during the dental rehabilitation of such patients.

CASE REPORT

A 3-year-old girl visited the dental clinic with the chief complaint of multiple carious teeth and H/o neural tube defect (NTD) which had been operated on at the age of 6 weeks. On dental examination, multiple dental abscesses and severe early childhood caries were noted. Radiographic evaluation revealed internal root resorption of tooth "K" and external root resorption of tooth "T." The two teeth were treated with ledermix paste followed by obturation with Vitapex^® (Diadent Group International Inc., Burnaby, BC, Canada) along with triple antibiotic paste and placement of stainless steel crown (SSC). A latex-free environment was maintained during the entire treatment to prevent allergic reaction. A follow up after 42 months indicated clinical and radiographical success.

CONCLUSION

The paper reports succesfull management of internal and external root resorption as well as latex allergy in a dental operatory. The dental perspective while dealing with patients having NTD is limited. Explaining the particulars of the treatment plan will aid in management of such cases .

Clinical Characteristics of Localized Aggressive Periodontitis in Primary Dentition

OBJECTIVES

Due to the low prevalence of localized aggressive periodontitis (LAP), clinical characteristics of LAP in primary dentition are derived from a few case reports/series in the literature. The goal of this study was to determine common clinical characteristics such as bone and root resorption patterns, in a series of cases with LAP in primary dentition. We hypothesize these cases present aggressive periodontal bone destruction starting mostly around first primary molars and atypical root resorption patterns.

STUDY DESIGN

We have evaluated 33 LAP cases in primary dentition for pattern of bone destruction, root resorption and early exfoliation.

RESULTS

Cases evaluated were aged 5-12 (mean=8.7 years). Thirty cases presented more severe bone loss on first than second molars, with relatively fast progression to second molars, altered pattern of root resorption, mostly external (n=16) and early exfoliation of primary teeth due to periodontal bone loss, rather than physiologic root resorption (n=11).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed common clinical characteristics found in LAP in primary molars, including possible initiation on first primary molars and abnormal root resorption patterns. These characteristics are important to be early identified and treated in order to prevent possible progression into the permanent dentition.

Clinical Management of Two Root Resorption Cases in Endodontic Practice

Root resorption is a pathological process involving loss of hard dental tissues. It may occur as a consequence of dental trauma, orthodontic treatment, and bleaching, and occasionally it accompanies periodontal disease. Although the mechanism of resorption process is examined in detail, its etiology is not fully understood. Wide open apical foramen is more difficult to manage and the root canal may often overfill. In this report we present two cases of root resorption and describe means for its clinical management. We conclude that useful measure of a success or failure in managing root resorption is the persistence of the resorption process. It is a clear sign of an active ongoing inflammatory process and shows the clinical need for retreatment.