External apical root resorption concurrent with orthodontic forces: the genetic influence

Abstract

Root resorption is a pathological process of multifactorial origin related to the permanent loss of dental root structure in response to a mechanical, inflammatory, autoimmune or infectious stimulus. External apical root resorption (EARR) is a frequent clinical complication secondary to orthodontic tooth movement; apart from variables related to treatment, environmental factors and/or interindividual genetic variations can confer susceptibility or resistance to its occurrence. In this context, genetic predisposition has been described as an etiological factor, together with mechanical factors derived from orthodontic treatment. In recent years, international research groups have determined the degree of influence of some genetic biomarkers in defining increased/reduced susceptibility to postorthodontic EARR. The influences of the IL1 gene cluster (IL1B, IL1A, IL1RN, IL6), P2RX7, CASP1, OPG (TNFRSF11B), RANK (TNFRSF11A), Osteopontin (OPN), TNFα, the vitamin D receptor (TaqI), TNSALP and IRAK1 have been analyzed. The objective of the present review study was to compile and analyze the latest information about the genetic background predisposing to EARR during orthodontic treatment. Genetics-based studies along with other basic science research in the field might help to clarify the exact nature of EARR, the influence of genetic inheritance and possibly lead to the prevention or even eradication of this phenomenon during orthodontic treatment.

Keywords:

• External apical root resorption
• orthodontics
• orthodontic treatment
• aetiology
• genetics

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

Notes on contributors

Nuria Nieto-Nieto was a phD student from the University of Seville, Spain and is current Lecturer in Master Program of Orthodontics.

Jose Enrique Solano is the Chairman and Director of the Orthodontic Master Program in the University of Seville.

Rosa Yañez-Vico is Associate Professor in the University of Seville were she is involved in several research Projects, mainly dealing with 3D diagnosis, root resorption and orthodontic tooth movement.

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by the Consejeria de Igualdad, Salud y Politicas Sociales. Junta de Andalucia. Spain /PI-0609-13/