Prevalence and Predictors of Root Resorption Associated with Maxillary Canine Impaction in an Orthodontic Tunisian Population: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

The main objective of this study was to determine the occurrence of root resorption of adjacent permanent teeth associated with impacted maxillary canines and to identify a predictive model for RR by means of orthopantomographic variables, with the intention of reducing the need for additional cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. Materials and Methods: The sample consisted of 70 consecutive patients (43 females and 27 males, with a mean age of 17.03 years). A total of 90 impacted maxillary canines and adjacent teeth were analyzed using panoramic and CBCT radiographs. Univariable and multivariable analyses were respectively evaluated using chi-square test, Student's t-test, and binary logistic regression analysis. Results: The prevalence of root resorption of the permanent teeth adjacent to the impacted canine was more frequent in females than in males (ratio 1.8), but without significant association. No relationship was found between the sex, the type, the side, and the buccopalatal position of the impacted canine and root resorption. A statistically significant relationship was noted between the canines located mesial to the midline of the lateral incisor and root resorption on the maxillary incisors. Therefore, adjacent root resorption caused by impacted maxillary canines can be affirmed to exhibit a greater amount of resorption as the position proximity of the canine crown and lateral incisor root increases. In this prediction model, the patient’s age, the mesio-distal position, and the inclination of the impacted canine were the strongest predictors for RR. Conclusion: The final prediction model for RR based on the available panoramic radiographs could be a helpful tool in justifying the need of additional CBCT examination.