Review of current medical literature on root resorption in orthodontics.

Root resorption is a common iatrogenic consequence of orthodontic treatment, although it can also be seen in the absence of orthodontic treatment. It may occur at any time during orthodontic treatment and compromise prognosis of the tooth involved and also the stability of treatment results. Orthodontics is the only branch which actually uses the inflammatory process as a tool for solving esthetic and functional problems. Therefore, every orthodontist should know the risk factors of root resorption involved in the process and plan treatment with an aim to reduce its possibility. The severity and degree of root resorption related with orthodontic treatment are multifactorial, involving environmental factors and host factors. A proper medical history, an assessment of predisposing factors, radiographic evaluation of alterations in root morphology and careful planning and execution of orthodontic mechanics may reduce the incidence of root resorption. The current review is aimed at providing clinicians and academics with an insight into the mechanical and biological aspects in the process of root resorption, the methods of identification during its early stages and intervention at the right time to reduce its severity.