Orthodontic movement of teeth with short root anomaly: Should it be avoided, faced or ignored?

INTRODUCTION Short Root Anomaly (SRA) is an uncommon disease and a challenge for orthodontic treatment as it tends to increase the risk of root resorption. OBJECTIVE Assess the current status of the diagnosis, etiology and orthodontic management of teeth with SRA, and present case reports. METHODS A literature review was carried out in PubMed, SciELO, LILACS, Scopus and Web of Science databases. RESULTS A differential diagnosis of SRA should be conducted for teeth with incomplete root formation, external apical root resorption, dentin dysplasia type I and post dental trauma root hypoplasia. SRA is genetically determined and orthodontic movement requires changes in clinical and radiographic management in order to restrict damage. CONCLUSIONS Orthodontic movement of teeth with SRA is contraindicated in extreme cases, only. Caution at all stages could minimize attachment loss and lead to long-term stability.