Internal Resorption Radiograph — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: D — Internal inflammatory root resorption
Internal inflammatory root resorption (IRR) is characterised radiographically as a uniform, round or oval radiolucent 'balloon-shaped' enlargement within the root canal space. The margins are sharp, smooth and clearly defined. This distinguishes it from replacement resorption (which shows irregular, mixed density replacement of dentin), external cervical resorption (which occurs at or near the cervix and extends laterally, not within the canal), and external inflammatory resorption or surface resorption (both of which occur on the external tooth surface, not inside the canal). Early diagnosis and treatment of internal inflammatory resorption is critical to prevent perforation of the root and loss of tooth viability.
Reference: Nouri MR, et al. CBCT evaluation of multiple idiopathic internal resorptions in permanent molars. Case Rep Dent. 2013:Article 561356. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3999360/ [Accessed 24 July 2026]