External resorption in an unerupted second permanent molar: case report

The literature on radiolucent lesions in unerupted permanent teeth is reviewed with particular attention to etiology. A case is presented which demonstrates severe coronal destruction of a mandibular second permanent molar. Histological evidence also is presented to confirm diagnosis of external resorption. Based on previous literature and the results of this case, the authors conclude that there are apparently 2 types of radiolucent lesions affecting unerupted permanent eeth. There is a process of resorption which can affect the coronal portion of unerupted permanent premolars and molars. When detected on radiographs, it initially presents a radioIucency which suggests dental caries. This process, if undetected, can be devastating to the developing permanent tooth.