Taurodontism

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Taurodontism is a condition found in the molar teeth where the body of the tooth and pulp chamber is enlarged vertically at the expense of the roots. The change gives the tooth a rectangular shape. It is a morpho-anatomical change in the shape and internal anatomy of the tooth. The name is derived from the words 'taurus' (bull) and 'odont' (tooth) because the condition was first identified in the teeth of a bull.

Etiology[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of taurodontism is not known. It is thought to be a result of the failure of Hertwig's epithelial root sheath to invaginate at the proper horizontal level. This condition can be associated with several syndromes and chromosomal abnormalities, including Klinefelter syndrome, Down syndrome, and Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Taurodontism can complicate endodontic therapy because of the tooth's abnormal shape. The large pulp chamber can make it difficult to fully clean and fill the tooth. In addition, the short roots can make the tooth less stable and more prone to loss.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

Taurodontism is a rare condition, with a prevalence of less than 1% in the general population. It is more common in individuals with certain genetic syndromes and chromosomal abnormalities.

See also[edit | edit source]

Taurodontism Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD