External root resorption following bleaching of pulpless teeth with oxygen peroxide

Abstract

Abstract Eleven teeth in which bleaching with 30% oxygen peroxide was followed by external root resorption are presented. One tooth had no traumatic history, while the others were previously subluxated or luxated in accidental injury. Radiographic appearance of resorptions varied. In 2 teeth the resorptions were only superficial and did not progress during the observation time. In 5 teeth the resorptions were associated with ankylosis. In the remaining 4 teeth the resorption was progressive, bowl‐shaped and associated with radiolucency in the adjacent alveolar bone. It was suggested that damage to the periodontium, caused by oxygen peroxide at the time of treatment, may heal or be followed by ankylosis and, when complicated by bacterial contamination, develop to a progressive root resorption associated with persistent inflammatory changes in periodontal tissues.