Interrelationships of endodontic- orthodontic treatments

The purpose of this article was reviewing the literature related to the mutual effects of endodontics and orthodontics on each other providing documented information that can be used by dentists in clinical practice. The effect of orthodontic treatment on the dental pulp and its role in root resorption, the influence of previous trauma to the tooth and endodontic treatment in orthodontic tooth movements and root resorption, recommendations regarding endodontic treatment during orthodontic tooth movement and the role of the orthodontic forces in provision and outcome of endodontic treatment are being discussed. The effect of the orthodontic tooth movement on the pulp is focused primarily on the neurovascular system which can cause degenerative and/or inflammatory responses in the dental pulp. Although, most of these changes are considered reversible, it seems that teeth with complete apical foramen and teeth subjected to previous insults, such as trauma, caries, restorations and periodontal diseases are more susceptible to pulpal irreversible changes. Teeth with root canal treatment that are well cleaned shaped, and three- dimensionally obturated, exhibit less propensity to apical root resorption during orthodontic tooth movement. This outcome depends on the absence of microleakage for bacterial ingress. A traumatized tooth can be moved orthodontically with minimal risk of resorption, provided that the pulp has not been severely injured (infection or necrosis). If there is evidence of pulpal demise, appropriate endodontic treatment is necessary prior to orthodontic treatment. If a previously traumatized tooth exhibits resorption, there is a greater chance that orthodontic tooth movement will enhance the resorptive process. If a tooth has been severely traumatized (intrusion, avulsion) there would be a greater incidence of resorption with tooth movement. It is recommended that teeth requiring root canal treatment during orthodontic movement be initially cleaned and shaped followed by the interim placement of calcium hydroxide. Final canal obturation with gutta-percha should be accomplished upon the completion of orthodontic treatment. Endodontically treated teeth can be moved orthodontically similar to teeth with vital pulps. In case of endodontic procedures like apexification, there may be no need to delay the orthodontic treatment.