Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 6, 2026
Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Multiple External Root Resorption of Teeth as a New Manifestation of Systemic Sclerosis-A Cross-Sectional Study in
Takumi Memida1, Shinji Matsuda2, Mikihito Kajiya1
1Department of Periodontal Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical & Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3, Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, 734-8553, Japan.
Background:
Multiple external root resorption (MERR) has been reported in systemic sclerosis (SSc) patients in Japan and Spain. To establish whether MERR is a new manifestation, we investigated the prevalence of MERR and systemic and oral manifestations to be associated with MERR in patients with SSc.
Methods:
Root resorption was detected by dental X-rays, panoramagraphy or cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The prevalence of systemic and oral manifestations was examined by rheumatologists and dentists, respectively. Autoantibodies were investigated using laboratory tests.
Results:
MERR was detected in four out of the 41 patients (9.8%) who participated in the present study. The prevalence of digital ulcers was significantly higher in patients with MERR (MERR vs non-MERR, 75% vs 16.2%, p < 0.05), whereas that of other systemic manifestations was not. The prevalence of face skin sclerosis (100% vs 10.8%, p < 0.01), calcinosis at the facial region (75% vs 0%, p < 0.01), limited mouth opening (75% vs 18.9% p < 0.05), temporomandibular disorder symptoms (50% vs 2.7%, p < 0.05), and tongue rigidity (75% vs 2.7%, p < 0.05) was significantly higher in patients with MERR.
Conclusion:
SSc patients with MERR had highly homogenous maxillofacial manifestations. Further clinical and basic studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying MERR in SSc patients.
