INTRODUCTION: The literature on preeruptive intracoronal resorption is sparse, comprising mainly reports of single patients. This study includes 13 patients with preeruptive intracoronal resorption, forwarded for consultation regarding diagnostics and etiology. The purposes were to determine which teeth are affected by the condition and describe how the defect is manifested radiographically. METHODS: We used visual analyses of dental or panoramic radiographs. RESULTS: The mandibular second molar appears to be the tooth that is most often affected by preeruptive intracoronal resorption. The resorption of the dentin in the molar crown was in the initial phases often seen in the medial aspects. The dentin in the crown could also be completely resorbed. The enamel contour encircling the dentin persisted as shown on the radiographs. In 1 maxillary canine, the dentin and enamel structures were completely disorganized by the resorption processes. CONCLUSIONS: Specialists in orthodontics are often the first to see radiographs of unerupted permanent teeth; therefore, they have a responsibility to be aware of the condition and refer these patients to an endodontist for treatment planning and prognosis before a decision is made regarding orthodontic treatment.
INTRODUCTION: The literature on preeruptive intracoronal resorption is sparse, comprising mainly reports of single patients. This study includes 13 patients with preeruptive intracoronal resorption, forwarded for consultation regarding diagnostics and etiology. The purposes were to determine which teeth are affected by the condition and describe how the defect is manifested radiographically. METHODS: We used visual analyses of dental or panoramic radiographs. RESULTS: The mandibular second molar appears to be the tooth that is most often affected by preeruptive intracoronal resorption. The resorption of the dentin in the molar crown was in the initial phases often seen in the medial aspects. The dentin in the crown could also be completely resorbed. The enamel contour encircling the dentin persisted as shown on the radiographs. In 1 maxillary canine, the dentin and enamel structures were completely disorganized by the resorption processes. CONCLUSIONS: Specialists in orthodontics are often the first to see radiographs of unerupted permanent teeth; therefore, they have a responsibility to be aware of the condition and refer these patients to an endodontist for treatment planning and prognosis before a decision is made regarding orthodontic treatment.