Root resorptions in a patient with hemifacial atrophy

Hemifacial atrophy (Parry-Romberg syndrome) is a rare but well-recognized condition. The developmental effects on facial and oral structures have been well documented in the literature. However, the etiology of hemifacial atrophy remains unknown. Previous reported alterations in tooth growth and development include delayed tooth eruption, abnormal root morphology, and malocclusion but not root resorption. This report presents the orofacial changes from hemifacial atrophy in a 22-yr-old woman and describes the occurrence of root resorptions in two regions affected by this condition. The concurrent presence of root resorptions in both the maxilla and mandible in the regions showing the most severe dental malformations points to root resorption as an additional complication of hemifacial atrophy.