American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Resource to Master Your Orthodontics Certification!

Inflammatory resorption is a dental condition primarily associated with the root surface of a tooth. This phenomenon occurs when the periodontal ligament and surrounding tissues experience inflammation, often due to trauma, infection, or orthodontic treatment. During this process, the osteoclasts are activated, leading to the resorption of the root surface, which can compromise the tooth's stability and longevity.

The root surface is typically the site where resorption patterns manifest, as it is directly in contact with the periodontal ligament and associated inflammatory processes. Unlike enamel, which is more resistant to resorption due to its mineralized and protective characteristics, or areas restricted solely to the crown or pulp chamber, the root is susceptible to the effects of inflammatory factors.

Understanding this relationship is crucial in orthodontics, as forces applied to the teeth can create a response in the surrounding tissues, potentially resulting in root resorption if the inflammatory process is not properly managed.