Dens invaginatus:aetiology, classification, prevalence, diagnosis, and treatment considerations

Abstract

Dens invaginatus is a malformation of teeth probably resulting from an infolding of the dental papilla during tooth development. Affected teeth show a deep infolding of enamel and dentine starting from the foramen coecum or even the tip of the cusps, and which may extend deep into the root. Teeth most affected are maxillary lateral incisors and bilateral occurrence is not uncommon. The malformation shows a broad spectrum of morphologic variations and frequently results in early pulp necrosis. Root canal therapy may present severe problems because of the complex anatomy of the teeth. Aetiology, prevalence, classification, and therapeutic considerations including root canal therapy, apical surgery and prevention of pulpal involvement are reviewed.

Regenerative Endodontic Treatment of an Infected Immature Dens Invaginatus with the Aid of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

“…The etiology of dens invaginatus is still unclear and several theories have been suggested, including alterations in tissue pressure, trauma, infection, or local discrepancy in the cellular hyperplasia [1]. …”

“…Endodontic treatment of dens invaginatus type III can become complicated because of an unpredictable internal anatomy [1]. A complete disinfection of the root canal system is of great importance to promote healing of periapical tissues.…”

Surgical Orthodontic Treatment of an Impacted Canine in the Presence of Dens Invaginatus and Follicular Cyst

“…“Dens invaginatus” is a dental anomaly, described for the first time in 1859 by Socrates [1]. Over the years, it has been associated with many synonyms: dens in dentis, invaginated odontome, tooth inclusion, dentoid in dente, dilated gestant odontoma, and dilated composite odontoma.…”

Combined Surgical and Nonsurgical Endodontic Therapy in the Treatment of Dens Invaginatus Type 3: A Case Report

“…1-4 Salter5 first described anatomical anomaly in 1855 as "a tooth within a tooth." The etiology is controversial and remains unclear4 however, most authors concur the above mentioned reason.…”

“…1-4 Salter5 first described anatomical anomaly in 1855 as "a tooth within a tooth." The etiology is controversial and remains unclear4 however, most authors concur the above mentioned reason. Other theories include an incomplete lateral fusion of two germs, the distortion of the enamel organ during tooth development, abnormal pressure from the surrounding tissues during tooth formation, the constriction of the dental arch in the enamel organ and a retardation or acceleration of growth of the internal enamel epithelium 6-8…”