Internal Resorption: A Retrospective Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Analysis of 50 Cases With Outcome Assessment

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Oral Pathology

Background:

• Internal resorption is a rare endodontic complication with limited literature on its characteristics and treatment prognosis.
• Understanding lesion features and prognostic factors is crucial for effective management and tooth retention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize clinical and radiographic features of internal resorption lesions.
• To determine factors associated with treatment outcomes in internal resorption cases.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 50 internal resorption cases from 2010-2025 at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine.
• Analysis included periapical radiographs and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, with independent evaluation by two endodontists.
• One-, five-, and seven-year outcomes were assessed using statistical analysis, including Fisher's exact test.

Main Results:

• 98% of cases were internal inflammatory resorption, most frequent in first molars and maxillary central incisors.
• Survival and success rates were 88% and 83.3% respectively after ≥1 year follow-up.
• Teeth with vital pulps, normal apical tissues, or in female patients showed higher 1-year failure rates (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

• Contemporary endodontic techniques offer successful treatment for internal resorption.
• Vital pulps and female patient demographics are associated with increased failure risk, possibly due to lesion growth potential.
• Further prospective studies are needed to refine treatment strategies and identify prognostic indicators for internal resorption.