A review of cone beam computed tomography for the diagnosis of root resorption associated with impacted canines, introducing an innovative root resorption scale

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to review all cases referred for cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to the department of dental radiology at the Leeds Dental Institute to aid diagnosis of root resorption associated with impacted canines. We aimed to establish if referral for and reporting of these CBCT assessments were in compliance with current guidelines. In addition, we introduced a new and innovative tool to aid reporting of CBCT images of root resorption associated with an impacted tooth. All plain film radiographs taken before CBCT were reviewed to determine if root resorption was evident or suspected from the plain film radiographs.

Study design: Root resorption was recorded from plain film radiographs taken before CBCT by using a resorption scale designed by the authors for assessing root resorption associated with impacted canines (Two-Dimensional Leeds Resorption Scale). CBCT radiography reports of all cases were reviewed to identify cases with confirmed root resorption.

Results: All cases referred for CBCT were compliant with guidelines relating to referrals and reporting.

Conclusions: CBCT provided improved detection rates (63%) of root resorption associated with impacted canines. The resorption scale developed by the authors (Three-Dimensional Leeds Orthodontic Root Resorption Target Scale) is intended to address the subjective nature of reporting of CBCT images taken to assess root resorption associated with impacted teeth.