Mandibular growth and tooth eruption after localized x-radiation.

The effect of localized x-radiation on the growth of mandibular bone and molar eruption was evaluated by morphometric methods. A dose of 20 Gy of x-radiation was given to the molar zone of growing rats. The animals were then killed in groups at 30 and 60 days postirradiation. Two groups of nonirradiated, age-matched rats were used as controls. Parameters related to molar eruption, mandibular length, and mandibular height were measured on lateral radiographs. The results obtained showed that the values of the biometric parameters were lower in experimental than in control animals. Odontoblastic atrophy, alveolodentary ankylosis, and meager or no root formation were the most conspicuous histologic findings. Osteodentin was found between canaliculary dentin and bone in cases of ankylosis. The morphometric data presented confirm the probability of alterations in mandibular growth and tooth eruption following x-radiation and suggest that this be considered in planning radiotherapy in children.