Inhibition of apical root resorption by calcium hydroxide during orthodontic treatment: a case report

ABSTRACT

Apical root resorption is a common outcome of orthodontic treatment. The present article reports a case of absence of apical root resorption in a left maxillary lateral incisor filled with calcium hydroxide paste throughout orthodontic movement. After orthodontic treatment was completed the tooth was subsequently obturated with gutta-percha and the patient followed for 18 months. The presence of a periapical lesion and the properties of calcium hydroxide as a root resorption inhibitor were decisive for such an approach in the presented case. Also, the role played by the vital dental pulp in the resorptive process was discussed.