Mandibular third molar gemination: A rare anomaly

Abstract

Gemination and fusion are anomalies which have close similarity. These anomalies may develop during tooth bud morphodifferentiation as a result of a developmental aberration of the ectoderm and mesoderm. The incidence of these anomalies was reported to be less than 1%, occurring predominantly in incisors and canines with equal distribution in the maxilla and mandible. Gemination and fusion are generally asymptomatic and do not require treatment. However, there could be poor aesthetics, periodontal destruction, or caries leading to pulp necrosis. This article reports a rare occurrence of fusion/gemination in the third molar region.

Keywords

• Ectoderm
• fusion
• gemination
• mesoderm