Dynamics of orthodontic root resorption and repair in human premolars: a light microscopy study

The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between root resorption and repair in human premolars that had been orthodontically intruded. The objective was to examine these processes related to time and root development. Seventy-six premolars were divided into subgroups: 33 teeth were intruded and then extracted (G1); 25 teeth were intruded and then left in situ for varying periods before extraction (G2); 18 teeth served as the controls (G3). All teeth were examined by light microscopy. Using non-parametric statistical analysis, differences between the groups were examined with the Pearson chi-square test. Teeth in G1 and G2 had significantly more resorptive lesions, 55 and 64 per cent, respectively, than the controls of 11 per cent. Resorption was observed over the whole root surface and increased with time. The occurrence increased to 100 per cent in both experimental groups after 36 days of intrusion. The appearance of lesions in relation to root development showed no differences between G1 and G2. In the apical part of the root, total resorption of the dentine was sometimes observed, but no resorptions extended into the predentine. Resorptive lesions undergoing repair were seen in both groups, with significantly more repair in G2 (58 per cent) than in G1 (32 per cent). Active resorption and repair were sometimes seen at the same resorption site. Deposition of cellular and acellular cementum was found to the same extent over the whole root when repair took place. With time, resorption appeared over the whole root surface. In some teeth, resorptive activity continued up to 10 days after removal of forces but on the other hand, repair of the resorbed area sometimes started during active movement. The individual variation in repair was much wider compared with resorption. The predentine layer in the apical area appeared not to be affected by the resorptive process.