The European Journal of Orthodontics, Volume 20, Issue 1: p 57– 63, February 1998
E Levander *,** , R Bajka * and O Malmgren *,*** Department of Orthodontics, Eastmaninstitutet, Stockholm, Sweden, ** Department of Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity of digital radiographs for detection of (1) simulated root resorption cavities in an experimental model and (2) orthodontically-induced apical root resorption in vivo. The severity of root resorption after 3 and 6 months treatment was studied in relation to root form. The experimental study cavities, drilled in mandibular roots in a dry skull, were recorded in conventional and digital radiographs.
• In vivo root resorption was evaluated on digital radiographs of
92 maxillary incisors after 3 and 6 months treatment with fixed
appliances.
The results showed a similar sensitivity for the two methods.
• After 3 months apical root resorption was detected in only a few teeth.
• The number had increased significantly after 6 months.
• There was a higher degree of root resorption in teeth with blunt and pipette-shaped apices.
• In such teeth a 3 -month radiographic control is recommended.
