Talon cusp causing occlusal trauma and acute apical periodontitis: report of a case

- The talon cusp, or dens evaginatus of anterior teeth, is a relatively rare dental developmental anomaly characterized by the presence of an accessory cusp-like structure projecting from the cingulum area or cemento-enamel junction. This occurs in either maxillary or mandibular anterior teeth in both the primary and permanent dentition. One of the main problems caused by accessory cusps are occlusal interferences. The anomalous cusp even can generate occlusal trauma and reversible acute apical periodontitis of the opposing tooth. This article reports a case of talon cusp affecting the permanent maxillary left lateral incisor that caused clinical problems related to occlusal trauma and apical periodontitis caused by a premature contact. The treatment of the occlusal interference produced by the taloned tooth is described.