Unusual dens evaginatus on maxillary premolars: a case report

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Anomalies
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Dens evaginatus is a rare developmental dental anomaly characterized by an enamel and dentin tubercle, often containing pulp tissue.
• This anomaly most frequently affects premolar teeth, posing unique challenges in dental management.
• Early identification and monitoring are crucial due to the potential for pulpal complications.

Observation:

• A 12-year-old boy presented with bilateral dens evaginatus on his maxillary second premolars.
• One tubercle was notably elongated, yet it did not interfere with occlusion against the opposing primary mandibular second molar.
• Caries were present on the affected teeth.

Findings:

• The carious lesions were successfully restored.
• The unusually long dens evaginatus tubercle was intentionally left untreated.
• The case underscores the importance of individualized treatment planning for dens evaginatus.

Implications:

• Management strategies for dens evaginatus depend on multiple factors, including tubercle morphology and presence of caries.
• Periodic monitoring is essential to detect and manage potential pulpal complications arising from caries or tubercle fracture.
• This case contributes to understanding the clinical management of rare dental anomalies like dens evaginatus.