Treatment of invasive cervical resorption: an analysis of results using topical application of trichloracetic acid, curettage, and restoration

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to carry out a clinical evaluation of the treatment of invasive cervical resorption.

Method and materials: Topical application of a 90% aqueous solution of trichloracetic acid, curettage, nonsurgical root canal treatment where necessary, and restoration with glass-ionomer cement were performed on 94 patients with a total of 101 affected teeth. A minimum of 3 years' follow-up was required, unless failure occurred before that time, in which case that treatment was included. Teeth were divided into four classes, depending on the extent of the resorptive process. Class 1 represented the least invasive resorptive lesion, near the cervical area with shallow penetration into dentin, while class 4 represented the most invasive resorptive process, which had extended beyond the coronal third of the root.

Results: In all class 1 and class 2 cases, the results showed complete success, judged by an absence of resorption or signs of periapical or periodontal pathosis. When overall success was judged by absence of resorption and periapical or periradicular pathosis, the success rate in class 3 lesions was 77.8%. Only 12.5% of teeth in class 4 were free of resorption and deemed to be clinically sound.

Conclusion: The treatment regimen was successful in class 1 and class 2 cases, reasonably successful in class 3 cases, and generally unsuccessful in class 4 resorptions, where alternative treatment is recommended. Diagnosis of lesions at an early stage is, therefore, highly desirable.