Root resorption of replanted teeth: an SEM study

Two replanted and subsequently expelled upper central incisors were observed under a scanning electron microscope to study the changes brought about by root resorption. The severity of resorption and the distribution of the affected areas were different in the two specimens. In the first case, large, deep excavations were found along a continuous bone defect which exposed the opposite root canal wall. Bacteria-like elements were found on the bottom of the eroded areas both on the outer and on the inner root surfaces. In the second case, resorption denuded the apical portion of the metal post. Erosive lacunae were visible in some areas while tubiform excavations were present close to the apical margin exposing the collagen network. The roots in the first case likely underwent inflammatory resorption while replacement resorption was thought to have occurred in the second case.