ABSTRACT
Dental fusion is a rare developmental anomaly, which is included in the anomalies of tooth morphology or shape. Fusion can occur at the level of enamel or enamel and dentin, which results in the formation of a single tooth with enlarged clinical crown. Fusion is more common in deciduous dentition. Incisors are reported to be fused in primary and permanent dentition, but bilateral fusion is a rare occurrence. The prevalence of bilateral fusion in the permanent dentition is less frequent than unilateral fusion and is reported to be around 0.05%. The authors report a case of a 20-year-old male with bilateral fusion of maxillary central and lateral incisors. Multi-disciplinary treatment approach is essential to get the desired esthetic result. The best way to manage these difficult cases depends on a number of factors including the knowledge and technical skills of the practitioner.
ABSTRACT
Palatal radicular grooves are developmental anomalies of maxillary incisors, which contribute to localized periodontitis resulting in loss of anterior teeth. Palatal radicular grooves, when present, act as a site for plaque accumulation and periodontal infection. They are easily overlooked as etiologic factors, as these grooves are covered by periodontal tissues. The clinician has to be alert and check for variations in the anatomy of the tooth as a cause of pulp necrosis in the anterior segment of the tooth, when other causes are ruled out. Recognition of palatal radicular grooves is critical, especially because of its diagnostic complexity and the problems that may arise if it is not properly interpreted and treated. This case report describes the diagnosis and management of a maxillary lateral incisor with necrotic pulp and localized periodontal destruction, associated with a palatal radicular groove.