Anomalies of Tooth Structure
Course Number: 651
Course Contents
Taurodontism
Taurodonts are molar teeth that present unusual tooth morphology, resembling the teeth of bulls (Figure 46).10,13,14 This may be a variation of normal tooth formation. Radiographically, taurodonts display elongated pulp chambers and short stubby roots that look like bull’s horns.8-10 Table 5 outlines three categories used to classify the severity of the deformity, originally described by Shaw in 1928: Hypotaurodontism (Mild), Mesotaurodontism (Moderate), and Hypertaurodontism (Severe).13-15 The severity is determined by the increasing apical displacement of the pulpal floor.5,13-15 Permanent molar teeth are more frequently involved than primary teeth with either unilateral or bilateral presentation.5 The prevalence is variable but approximates 3% of the U.S. population.5 Taurodontism is associated with a number of syndromes indicating possible linkage to chromosomal aberrations in tooth development.5,13,14
Figure 46.
Periapical radiograph of mesotaurodont teeth #18 and #19
Table 5. Taurodontism Classification.5,13,14
| Category | Degree | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hypotaurodontism | Mild | Moderate enlargement of the pulp chamber compared to the roots |
| Mesotaurodontism | Moderate | Large pulp chamber with short separate roots |
| Hypertaurodontism | Severe | Pulp chamber nearly reaches root apices before dividing into stubby separate roots |