DENTAL REMNANTS: A SILENT SOURCE OF ODONTOGENIC INFECTION – A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Dental remnants, also called residual roots, may remain in the oral cavity after loss of the tooth crown due to extensive caries, fractures, or incomplete extractions. Although they may remain asymptomatic, the absence of clinical manifestations does not necessarily mean the absence of pathological changes, especially when these remnants are associated with pulp necrosis and contamination of the root canal system. Under these conditions, microbial persistence may favor the maintenance of odontogenic infectious foci and the development of periapical changes. This study aims to analyze the infectious potential of asymptomatic dental remnants, considering diagnosis, the possible local and systemic repercussions of infection, and the criteria for removal or follow-up. This is a narrative literature review with a qualitative approach, analyzing studies published between 2014 and 2025, as well as classic studies relevant to the foundation of the topic. The findings show that the infectious potential is not related only to the presence of the residual root, but mainly to its biological conditions, including intraradicular contamination and changes in the periapical tissues. Clinical evaluation combined with imaging examinations is essential to identify these conditions and define the management. It is concluded that potentially contaminated dental remnants should not be neglected merely because of the absence of symptoms, and individualized evaluation is necessary to determine the need for follow-up or intervention.