Surgical repair of root and tooth perforations

A root perforation is a mechanical or pathological communication formed between the supporting periodontal apparatus of the tooth and the root canal system. Three broad categories of etiological factors exist and these are procedural mishaps, resorption and caries. The diagnosis, management and repair of root perforations require skill and creative thinking. Unfortunately, much of what has been written on the subject of root perforation repair is unsubstantiated and empirical in nature and contributes little to evidence-based support for any specific repair procedure. However, perforation repair frequently provides a very attractive and frequently successful alternative to extraction of the involved tooth. In recent years, the procedure has become more predictable owing to the development of new materials, techniques and procedures.