Orthodontic root resorption might be inevitable consequence of tooth movement during orthodontic treatment. During orthodontic tooth movement, mechanical forces of compression and tension are applied to the periodontal ligament (PDL). The PDL undergoes compression between the tooth surface and the alveolar bone on the side to which the tooth is moved. If great force is applied over long durations the PDL is injured forming hyalinized tissue and also root resorption may occurs. Teeth at risk of severe resorption are needed to be identified as early as possible while the patient is undergoing orthodontic treatment.
The clinical diagnosis of root resorption relies basically on radiographs including; periapical, panorama, and 3D images. Nonetheless, root resorption is not detectable by radiographs until 60–70% of the mineralized tissue is lost. Also, radiographs do not indicate whether the root resorption is active or not. Above all, radiographs bear the risk of radiation.
Monitoring disease progression through biological fluid diagnostic techniques has been advocated among healthcare professional and researchers. Among the biological markers with potential diagnostic capabilities for root resorption are Dentine sialoprotein (DSP) and Interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) expressed in gingival crevicular fluid.