Pre-eruptive intracoronal resorption

a case report

Abstract

Pre-eruptive intracoronal resorption (PIR) is a rare condition characterized by a well-defined radiolucent/hypodense area within the coronal dentin, typically located near the dentinoenamel junction of unerupted teeth. As the lesion is usually asymptomatic, its diagnosis often occurs incidentally during routine radiographic examinations. Due to the scarcity of documented cases, there remains a significant gap in the understanding of PIR. This study aims to report the case of a 10-year-old patient in the permanent dentition phase, presenting with PIR in the mandibular right second molar. The condition was documented through periapical radiography, panoramic radiography, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The images revealed a radiolucent/hypodense area within the crown of tooth 47, originating at the mesial dentinoenamel junction and extending toward the occlusal and distal surfaces. The affected tooth was partially impacted and still in development, consistent with the diagnosis of PIR. These findings underscore the importance of prior clinical knowledge and careful radiographic and tomographic evaluation for accurate diagnosis and therapeutic planning. Further research on PIR is essential to improve the understanding of its etiology, promote early diagnosis, and guide appropriate treatment strategies.

Keywords: Unerupted Tooth. Tooth Resorption. Diagnostic Imaging.