Restoration and retention of maxillary anteriors with severe root resorption.

BACKGROUND

The authors describe the treatment of three patients who had severe apical root resorption of maxillary lateral incisors caused by ectopically erupting canines. Ectopically erupting canines derive from a normal path of eruption and may cause resorption of the adjacent teeth.

CASE DESCRIPTION: The authors present the three cases of severe root resorption caused by ectopically erupting canines. They then discuss various prosthetic options; the indications, advantages and disadvantages of various treatment modalities; the long-term retention and esthetic concerns of the patients; and the inherent limitations of restorative treatment.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Increased tooth mobility and long-term retention are significant concerns in cases of patients who have severe root resorption. Attaining stability with lingual splinting can cause esthetic problems. An interdisciplinary approach is necessary to provide optimal care for the patient.