Many factors can influence the eruption of the tooth into the oral cavity. Osteoclasts play an important role in the formation of the eruption pathway so any interruption of their activity can alter eruption and resorption. Abnormalities of the periodontal ligament can also affect the retention of the teeth in the oral cavity and can, therefore, lead to early tooth loss or retention of primary teeth.
The most important structure that controls eruption is the dental follicle. However, there needs to be an interaction between the dental follicle, the bone surrounding it and the tooth itself. This communication creates the proper pathway for eruption and any miscommunication or obstacles in the way (tooth, cyst, etc.) can alter the eruption mecanism.
Resorption is a loss of dental structure and can be either internal or external. Internal resorption begins in the pulp and moves outwards whereas external resorption begins on the outer surface of the tooth. External resorption can be diagnosed on an X-ray. Many factors can influence resorption like orthodontic treatment, trauma, cysts, tumors, adjacent impacted teeth, infections, hormonal diseases, etc.