A familial pattern of multiple idiopathic cervical root resorption in a father and son: A 22-year follow-up

Background: The etiology of idiopathic cervical root resorption has not been elucidated clearly. However, the process has been linked to trauma, intracanal bleaching, and partial-thickness connective tissue grafts. Methods: This study describes a familial pattern of multiple idiopathic cervical root resorption in a father and son. Results: The father was a healthy 63-year-old white mate who presented with the first resorption lesion in 1983. Twenty-seven additional lesions were identified on 16 teeth over 22 years. Five teeth were lost as a result of extensive resorption. The son was a healthy 43-year-old when a resorption lesion was identified in 1993. A lesion identified on another tooth 12 years later resulted in extraction. Conclusions: Close relatives of those affected by multiple idiopathic cervical root resorption should be examined carefully for cervical resorption. This study also showed that early treatment can prevent or delay the need for extraction.