Enamel pearl

Enamel pearl (also known as enameloma, enamel drop, or enamel nodule) is a small, round, enamel-like structure that forms on the root surface of a tooth. It is a rare dental anomaly that occurs in less than 5% of the population.

Formation

Enamel pearls are formed during tooth development. They are thought to occur when Hertwig's epithelial root sheath (HERS), a structure that shapes the root of the tooth, becomes disorganized and forms enamel instead of cementum on the root surface. This results in a small, round, enamel-like structure on the root of the tooth.

Characteristics

Enamel pearls are typically found on the roots of molars, particularly the maxillary molars. They are usually less than 1mm in diameter, but can be larger. They are composed of enamel, the hardest substance in the human body, and may contain a small amount of dentin, the second hardest substance in the human body. They are typically white or yellowish in color.

Clinical significance

Enamel pearls can cause a number of dental problems. They can disrupt the normal attachment of the periodontal ligament, leading to periodontal disease. They can also interfere with root canal treatment, as they can block access to the root canal. In addition, they can cause difficulties in tooth extraction, as they can be mistaken for residual root fragments.

Diagnosis

Enamel pearls can be diagnosed using dental radiographs. They appear as small, round, radiopaque structures on the root surface of the tooth. They can also be detected during dental surgery or tooth extraction.

Treatment

Treatment for enamel pearls depends on the problems they are causing. If they are causing periodontal disease, they may need to be removed. This can be done using a dental drill or laser. If they are interfering with root canal treatment, they may need to be bypassed or removed. If they are causing difficulties in tooth extraction, they may need to be removed or left in place, depending on the specific circumstances.

See also

• Dental enamel
• Tooth development
• Periodontal disease
• Root canal treatment

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