Comparative Evaluation of Orthodontically-Induced Root Resorption Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and Orthopantomogram (OPG) During En-Masse Retraction of Maxillary Anterior Teeth

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Orthodontically induced apical root resorption is an inescapable consequence of fixed orthodontics. This root resorption causes post-orthodontic complications in some treated cases. To avoid these complications proper diagnosis of the site and amount of resorption is important. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic ability of Orthopantomogram (OPG) and Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in detecting apical root resorption after en-masse retraction of maxillary anterior teeth in a sample of Saudi Arabian population. MATERIALS AND CONCLUSION: OPG had consistently underestimated the amount of orthodontically induced apical root resorption when compared to CBCT. OPG is only useful for the primary evaluation of root resorption. CBCT can be used as an adjunct diagnostic tool on a case-to-case basis in patients with moderate to severe root resorption to manage post-orthodontic treatment complications.