Apical root resorption of upper incisors caused by intrusive tooth movement: a radiographic study.

The purpose of the study was to investigate whether root resorption of the upper incisors occurs during intrusion of maxillary incisors. It examines the possibility of a relationship between the amount of root shortening and duration of the intrusive force. The ratio of root length before and after intrusion was compared in 20 patients. In 66 incisors with an intrusion period of 29 weeks, an intrusion of 3.6 mm was performed. The control group consisted of 15 patients who underwent no orthodontic treatment. Consequently, 58 incisors had no intrusion. The follow-up time between 2 measurements was +/- 28 weeks. The findings clearly showed root shortening after intrusion. A mean resorption of 18% of the original root length was found. In comparison, none of the control patients showed root shortening. No correlation has been found between the amount of resorption and the amount and duration of intrusion. In combination with the apical deflection of the root, the nasal floor was occasionally a limiting factor for intrusion and this may have caused root resorption.