External Cevical Resorption: Determinants and Treatment Outcomes

ABSTRACT

External cervical resorption (ECR) is a pathological process progressively resulting in a loss of dental hard tissue. The ECR initiation location—typically at the coronal third of the root—has been associated with the level of the junctional epithelium and the probing depth. The ECR starts as a small defect but it may progress vertically and horizontally towards the root canal space. Frequently, the ECR is an incidental clinical or radiographic finding, and the pulp status is normal. However, it can also be associated with clinical findings. While the etiology is not well understood, several predisposing factors have been associated with the presence of ECR. The treatment objectives are to remove the resorbing ECR tissue, to prevent its reoccurrence, and to retain a strong tooth structure. The treatment options can be determined based on the size and nature of the lesion, the approachability of the affected area, and the patient’s chief complaint. Currently, the treatment prognosis is supported by limited scientific evidence. This talk will present the recent findings on ECR determinants and treatment outcomes.