Long-term prognosis of traumatized permanent anterior teeth showing calcifying processes in the pulp cavity

122 traumatized teeth with radiographic evidence of abnormal hard tissue formation in the pulp cavity were examined 10-23 years (mean 16 years) after the time of injury. Judged radiographically, partial obliteration (pulp chamber not discernible, root canal markedly narrowed but clearly visible) had occurred in 44 teeth (36%). Normal periradicular conditions were found in all teeth with partial obliteration. Seventy-eight teeth (64%) were recorded as totally obliterated. Pathologic periradicular changes indicating pulp necrosis as a sequel to the total obliteration was observed in 16 teeth (21%). The late development of pulp necrosis was significantly related to teeth classified as severely injured, and to teeth with complete root formation at the time of injury. Furthermore, a comparatively rapid progress of the calcifying process appeared to be correlated with periradicular radiolucency.