Unusual case of silver cone disintegration.

An unusual case of silver cone disintegration associated with progressive root resorption is reported. The use of the scanning electron microscope and the electron microprobe provided evidence of different states of corrosion in two remaining silver cones. Light microscopic examination showed the presence of silver particles apparently released from the disintegrated or progressively corroded cones in the surrounding tissues. The possible interaction between such silver accumulations or their chemical combinations with other elements and the tissue is discussed.