Long-term follow-up after the treatment of obstructive cuspids in the maxilla causing severe root resorption of the lateral incisors: two case reports

Abstract

Abstract Background Root resorption of adjacent teeth due to obstructed canines is common, and orthodontic treatment often leads to secondary resorption or even loss of adjacent roots. Clinical reports of long-term stability after treatment are rare. Case presentation: This study reports two cases of maxillary cuspid obstruction resulting in severe root resorption of the adjacent lateral incisors. Surgical exposure, orthodontic retraction and alignment of the impacted cuspids successfully retracted the impacted cuspids in both cases, and the resorbed lateral incisors were stable with no significant loosening and normal pulp vitality after treatment and 5 and 10 year follow-up. Conclusions Light orthodontic force may be used to move teeth with root resorption of adjacent teeth due to obstructive teeth. The path and direction in which the teeth are moved must be specifically designed so that the adjacent roots are not resorbed and long-term stability can be achieved.