Evaluation of root resorption in maxillary anterior teeth during orthodontic treatment with a fixed appliance based on panoramic radiographs

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of apical root resorption in the anterior teeth of the maxilla visible on panoramic images during orthodontic treatment with a fixed appliance. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 194 panoramic radiographs of patients with a fixed appliance in the upper arch were analysed to evaluate the severity of root resorption in maxillary incisors and canines according to Levander and Malmgren classification. The research group included 135 females and 59 males, aged 15-28 years, with a mean 20.6 years. RESULTS: Of examined patients 75.26% had signs of apical root resorption. The tooth most frequently affected by resorptive changes was the right central upper incisor. The gender and age of the patients were not found to be significant factors. The highest number of teeth had second (II) stage root resorption (53.09%). CONCLUSIONS: Panoramic radiographs can be useful in diagnosing external apical root resorption due to orthodontic treatment.