Case report: idiopathic pre-eruptive coronal resorption of a maxillary permanent canine

Coronal resorption is a coronal degeneration of enamel and dentine in which ultimately the crown is replaced by vascular connective tissue through a defect in the enamel organ of an unerupted tooth. This is also known as pre-eruptive coronal resorption. However, the aetiology of resorption remains unclear. A 13 years 7 months old Caucasian boy who attended an orthodontic consultation for anterior crossbite correction presented with idiopathic pre-eruptive coronal resorption of an erupted right maxillary permanent canine (FDI 13). Clinically, the enamel remaining on the crown was extremely thin and had a shell-like appearance. There was erythematous soft tissue within the parameters of the crown that resembled pulp tissue. From the radiographs, the irregular radiolucency area within the crown portion extended widely into the enamel and dentine. Following excisional biopsy, it was decided to retain the right maxillary canine and monitor its progress. He has been reviewed at frequent appointments over 18-months since the time there was radiographic evidence of resorption. It is prudent to make an early diagnosis of this condition and to formulate short and long-term treatment plans, which may involve keeping the affected tooth to retain the alveolar bone height and width to allow for the option of planning for an implant.