Vital Pulp Therapy as a Conservative Approach for Management of Invasive Cervical Root Resorption: A Case Series

Clear treatment guidelines with predictable outcomes for invasive cervical root resorption (ICRR) do not exist. Recent studies show that an internal approach for the excavation and repair of resorptive lacunae using bioactive materials might be preferred over external surgical approaches in cases with extensive ICRR. The procedure appears to interrupt and stop the resorptive process and preserves the periodontium. The aim of this case series was to report on the clinical and radiographic outcomes in cases with ICRR treated with vital pulp therapy techniques using calcium-enriched mixture cement.

Teeth with the diagnosis of ICRR and normal pulpal and periodontal status were included. After rubber dam isolation and the removal of existing restorations, the resorptive lacunae were accessed internally, and the contents were partially or fully removed. A vital pulp therapy technique was chosen based on the accessibility of the resorptive lacunae during excavation. Teeth were then restored and followed up.

Six teeth with ICRR (Heithersay class 2, 3, or 4) were selected. One tooth was treated with pulp capping, 1 with partial pulpotomy, 2 with full pulpotomy, and 2 with partial pulpectomy. The average follow-up time was 19.6 months. After treatment, all teeth remained functional and asymptomatic with a normal periodontium. No progression of the resorption or development of new resorption was observed.

Internal excavation of the contents of resorptive lacunae in combination with vital pulp therapy with calcium-enriched mixture cement could be a reliable approach for the treatment of ICRR.