Orofacial radiological manifestations of systemic sclerosis.

OBJECTIVE

To ascertain the orofacial radiological manifestations of systemic sclerosis.

METHODS

Twenty-one patients with known systemic sclerosis underwent panoramic, and where appropriate periapical, radiography parotid sialography and a labial gland biopsy.

RESULTS

The prevalence of periodontal ligament space widening was 33%, bone resorption 9.5% and abnormal parotid gland sialographic findings 43%. Root resorption affected 4 (33%) of the 12 dentate patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Orofacial radiological manifestations occur commonly in systemic sclerosis. Root resorption has not previously been reported.