The external resorptive process of the permanent dentition referred to in this article has been given several different terms over the years, so therefore some confusion exists. Just a few popular labels are extra-canal invasive resorption (ECIR), invasive cervical resorption (ICR), external cervical resorption (ECR), subepithelial external root resorption, and idiopathic external resorption. They all refer to a relatively uncommon form of dental resorption. If left undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, mistreated or untreated, it will usually be quite devastating for a tooth. An Australian dentist, Dr Geoffrey Heithersay, has contributed much to the literature regarding all facets of this type of dental resorption. His work has become the basis of research and treatment. With few changes over the past several years, the aetiology, predisposing factors, classification, clinical and radiological features, histopathology and the treatment of this resorptive process he described are still used in our practice today.1–4,6 For this reason, this article will adopt the same nomenclature used in his numerous publications: invasive cervical resorption (ICR).
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