Detection, five-year monitoring, and management of a nonprogressive lesion of pre-eruptive intracoronal radiolucency

Abstract

Objectives: To report a case of pre-eruptive intracoronal radiolucency (PEIR) in the right mandibular second permanent molar of a young female patient, and to promote awareness of early detection of PEIR. It is a condition where unerupted teeth exhibit radiographic caries like radiolucency within the dentin and underneath the enamel.Study design: This report describes an incidental finding of an asymptomatic REIR seen in a panoramic radiograph. When the tooth was partially erupted, it was sealed to prevent bacterial colonization. After the tooth became fully erupted, conservative restorative treatment was performed and the patient was followed up for another year. Results:The detected lesion was monitored for five years and found to be nonprogressive. Conclusion:It is critical to monitor the progression of asymptomatic PEIR lesions by periodic radiographic examination. For the nonprogressive type of PEIR, we support following a conservative approach by monitoring until the tooth is fully erupted.