External Cervical Resorption: A Volumetric Analysis on Evolution of Defects over Time

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Pathology
• Radiology

Background:

• External cervical resorption (ECR) is a pathological process affecting teeth.
• Understanding the progression of ECR is crucial for patient management.
• Volumetric quantification offers a precise method to assess ECR defect changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the temporal changes in external cervical resorption (ECR) defects.
• To quantify ECR defect volume evolution using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).
• To analyze the development of root surface perforations in untreated ECR.

Main Methods:

• CBCT scans of patients with untreated ECR were analyzed at baseline and recall.
• ECR defects were segmented and their volumes quantified.
• Three-dimensional defect classification and perforation prevalence were assessed; statistical analysis included Wilcoxon, chi-square, and regression models.

Main Results:

• Fifteen patients (20 teeth) with a mean recall of 21 months were studied.
• ECR defect volume and the defect-to-tooth volume ratio significantly increased over time (P=.0001).
• Root surface perforations (≥1 mm) increased from 45% at baseline to 85% at recall (P=.008).

Conclusions:

• Untreated ECR defects demonstrate significant volumetric increase and progression.
• The dynamic nature of ECR involves increased defect size and root perforations.
• Volumetric ECR progression is not characterized by uniform or linear expansion.