Definition: A dental anomaly characterized by an elongated tooth body and pulp chamber with shorter than normal roots in multi-rooted teeth.
Radiographic Features:
- Location: Most common in mandibular molars, but can affect any multi-rooted tooth
- Edge: Well-defined
- Shape:
- Elongated tooth body
- Shortened roots
- Normal crown appearance
- Internal structure:
- Radiopaque, similar to normal tooth structure
- Enlarged pulp chamber
- Number: Can affect single or multiple teeth
Key points:
- Name derived from Greek “tauros” (bull) and “odont” (tooth)
- Crown appears normal in size and shape
- Bifurcation or trifurcation of roots occurs closer to apex
Clinical significance:
- May complicate endodontic treatment due to altered pulp chamber anatomy
- Potential challenges in tooth extraction
- Generally does not affect tooth function
- Associated with certain syndromes (e.g., Klinefelter’s syndrome)
Note: Severity can vary from mild to severe. Diagnosis is primarily based on radiographic examination.