I. Introduction
● Dr Amanda from StraightSmile Solutions continues her liability series, now focusing on root resorption.
● These are the top reasons for board complaints and lawsuits, right up there with perio.
● The goal is not to avoid all problems (they will happen), but to be 100% prepared when they do.

II. The Golden Rule: Warn Before You Start
● If you see blunted, tapered, or damaged roots on the initial pano, document it.
● Ask about prior trauma, endo, or ortho. If uncertain, send to endo.
● Endo must clear the patient in writing before you start ortho. No exceptions.
● If the patient refuses, you don’t take the case. Losing a start is better than losing a lawsuit.

III. XRays: NonNegotiable
● You must take a pano before starting ortho. An FMX is not enough; you will miss things.
● Progress Xrays (pano or PA with shift) are required at least once a year. You cannot charge extra for them.
● If there is a known risk, take progress Xrays every 3-4 months. Standard of care.
● CBCT is powerful, but you are responsible for everything in the field. Pay a reader if needed.

IV. Documentation and Informed Consent
● Standard informed consents are insufficient. Create a supplemental consent for any patient with impaction or root resorption risk.
● Warn patients in writing. Have them sign. Document the warning at every progress visit.
● Keep copies of endo reports and clearances.
● If another dentist catches a problem you missed, you are toast.

V. When to Stop Treatment
● If you detect root resorption during treatment, stop.
● Remove braces or pause Invisalign. Send to endo. Get clearance before restarting.
● Be prepared to give a partial refund if needed. Build these scenarios into your treatment plan.
● You can always restart after specialist clearance.

VI. The Phase One Advantage
● root resorption are extremely rare in Phase One interceptive patients (ages 6-8).
● Little kids have compliant bone, no perio, and minimal root risks.
● Once again, Phase One is the ultimate lawsuit prevention strategy.

VII. The Bottom Line
● Root resorption will happen if you treat enough patients.
● Protect yourself with panos, progress Xrays, endo referrals, and signed supplemental consents.
● Never rely on verbal warnings. Document everything.
● And if you want to sleep at night, stick with Phase One interceptive ortho.