ORTHODONTIC PROBLEMS IN PATIENTS WITH HYPODONTIA AND TAURODONTISM OF PERMANENT MOLARS

Abstract

Taurodontism is a morphological abnormality of the tooth shape with the following characteristic features: vertically enlarged pulp chamber, apical displacement of the bifurcation and trifurcation, shortened roots and no constriction at the level of the cementoenamel junction. This anomaly is still neglected by orthodontists when it comes to making treatment plans in spite of the reports in the literature of a close association of this condition with hypodontia and oligodontia.Aim: The article discusses the orthodontic problems arising in treating patients with hypodontia and taurodontism and suggests approaches to reducing the risk of complications during orthodontic tooth movement.Discussion: Failure to identify taurodont teeth in hypodontic patients can cause serious complications in their orthodontic management because of the greater susceptibility of these types of teeth to root resorption in orthodontic tooth movement. Besides, these types of teeth are less anchorage.Conclusion: The high incidence of taurodontism in hypodontic patients presents a clinical challenge for general dental practitioners and orthodonists alike. Furthermore, successful management of hypodontia rests on the orthodontist's ability to identify taurodont teeth and correctly include them in treatment plan.

Keywords

• taurodontism
• taurodont teeth
• hypodontia
• root resorption