[Reconsideration of the diagnosis and treatment for dens invaginatus]

Dens invaginatus (DI) is a developmental dental anomaly with complicated anatomical features and a broad spectrum of morphologic variations posing challenges of diagnosis and treatment to dental clinicians. Cone-beam CT (CBCT) can provide a more detailed 3D view of the complex anatomical variations in DI and help dental clinicians to verify the classification of DI and to improve the accuracy of diagnosis. A number of treatment planning options may need to be considered based on DI types, peri-radicular pathology involved and apical orifice closure status. Applications of modern endodontic techniques and novel materials may induce successful treatments and favorable outcomes. The aim of the present article is to review the etiology, classification and treatment outcome of DI and to provide guidelines of diagnosis and management of DI cases for dental clinicians.