External cervical resorption: clinical case report

Abstract

External cervical resorption (ECR) is an invasive type of resorption that begins below the gingival epithelium and affects mineralized tissues, e.g., cementum and dentin. Most authors refer to dental trauma, whitening agents, and orthodontic treatment as etiologic factors of ECR; clinical diagnosis is performed via inspection of the gingival groove and margin. In this scenario, cone beam computed tomography has become a highly valuable ancillary method, as it allows to assess the proximity between the resorption and the pulp cavity, and thus, plan treatment. This article describes, in the form of a clinical case report, the diagnosis and treatment of a case of ECR affecting tooth no. 11, classified as Class III according to Heitersay’s classification. Surgical approach, restoration and clinical follow-up over 2-years of follow-up are described. In view of the clinical and radiographic findings observed during follow-up, it can be concluded that treatment was successful in healing periodontal tissues, suggesting a good prognosis.