The correlation between external apical root resorption and electric pulp test responses: a prospective clinical...

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Diagnostics
• Endodontics

Background:

• External apical root resorption (EARR) is a common side effect of orthodontic treatment.
• Monitoring EARR is crucial for patient outcomes.
• Predictive diagnostic tools for EARR are needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between pulpal sensitivity measured by electric pulp testing (EPT) and EARR.
• To assess EPT as a potential diagnostic indicator for EARR in patients undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.

Main Methods:

• A prospective cohort study involving 58 patients (232 anterior teeth) undergoing fixed orthodontic treatment.
• EPT readings were recorded at 12 time points.
• Root length and EARR were measured using periapical radiographs and specialized software.
• Multiple linear regression and Pearson correlation coefficient were used for analysis.

Main Results:

• EPT levels showed an initial decrease, followed by an increase during orthodontic treatment.
• A significant correlation was found between changes in root length and time.
• A significant positive correlation was observed between changes in EPT levels and the amount of EARR.

Conclusions:

• A relative decrease in EPT levels may serve as a diagnostic sign for root resorption during orthodontic treatment.
• Further research with extended follow-up is recommended to validate these findings.