Revascularization-associated Intracanal Calcification: A Case Report with an 8-year Review

J Endod. 2018 Dec;44(12):1792-1795. doi: 10.1016/j.joen.2018.08.009. Epub 2018 Oct 25.

Abstract

Revascularization-associated intracanal calcification (RAIC) is a common finding in immature teeth managed with regenerative endodontic treatment (RET). The aim of this report was to illustrate a case in which 2 mandibular premolar teeth developed complete canal obliteration and have been reviewed for 8 years. The 3 primary outcome goals as defined by the American Association of Endodontists after RET are resolution of signs and symptoms of pulp necrosis, further root maturation, and achievement of responses to pulp vitality testing. The teeth had been included in an earlier quantitative study in which an increase in root canal width of 72.1% and 39.6% and an increase in root length of 1.7% and 0% were reported for teeth #20 and #29, respectively. Qualitative assessments over the 8-year review period showed no pathosis and a response to electric pulp testing at the final review. A quantitative assessment at the 8-year review showed an increase of 100% for canal width because complete calcification had occurred and no substantive change in root length (-0.17% and 0.68% for teeth #20 and #29, respectively). In this report, complete RAIC occurred in both teeth over time. RAIC has the potential to complicate future endodontic or prosthodontic treatment if necessary. Therefore, it is recommended that the American Association of Endodontists clinical considerations for a regenerative endodontic procedure be updated to include the incidence of RAIC after RET.

Keywords: American Association of Endodontists clinical considerations for a regenerative endodontic procedure; regenerative endodontic treatment; revascularization-associated intracanal calcification.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bicuspid*
  • Child
  • Dental Pulp Calcification / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mandible
  • Regenerative Endodontics*
  • Root Canal Therapy / adverse effects*
  • Time Factors