An unusual case of root perforation caused by surgical trephination

AIM: To present the diagnosis and management of an unusual case of root perforation caused by surgical trephination. SUMMARY: A root perforation caused by surgical trephination on a maxillary lateral incisor with diagnosis of symptomatic chronic periradicular periodontitis was managed with standard root canal preparation and filling with thermoplasticized gutta-percha. Recall radiographs up to 1 year revealed healing of the periapical lesion. *During surgical trephination, there is risk of damaging anatomical structures surrounding the tooth as well as the tooth itself. *Root perforation caused by trephination was successfully managed by standard canal preparation and filling with thermoplasticized gutta-percha.