Aim: To provide a three-dimensional representation of external cervical resorption (ECR) with microscopy, stereo microscopy, cone beam computed... » More

Aim: To provide a three-dimensional representation of external cervical resorption

(ECR) with microscopy, stereo microscopy, cone beam computed tomography (CT),

microfocus CT and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Summary: External cervical resorption is an aggressive form of root resorption, leading

to a loss of dental hard tissues. This is due to clastic action, activated by a damage of

the covering cementum and stimulated probably by infection. Clinically, it is a challenging

situation as it is characterized by a late symptomatology. This is due to the pericanalar

protection from a resorption-resistant sheet, composed of pre-dentine and

surrounding dentine. The clastic activity is often associated with an attempt to repair,

seen by the formation of osteoid tissue.

Key learning points:

• Cone beam CT is extremely useful in the diagnoses and treatment planning of ECR.

• SEM analyses provide a better insight into the activity of osteoclasts.

• The root canal is surrounded by a layer of dentine that is resistant to resorption.

Keywords: computed tomography, cone beam, external cervical resorption, hypoxia, microfocus, osteoclasts, osteodentine, resorption-resistant sheet, scanning

electron microscopy.

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