Removal of retained gutta-percha points after complete replacement resorption of maxillary incisors assisted by cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

Upon traumatic dental injury, complications such as replacement and inflammatory resorption may occur. When complete replacement resorption takes place, complete root resorption and loss of the tooth is unavoidable. Whilst an implant is often the treatment sought for replacing such missing teeth, the retained gutta-percha material used for root canal filling is often left behind inside the bone. There has not been any universal guideline on how to manage removal of retained gutta-percha points after complete replacement resorption of a traumatized tooth. This case report outlines a novel approach for the removal of two retained gutta-perchas with the assistance of cone-beam computed tomography, after complete replacement resorption of teeth 11 and 21 took place.