Conservative management of double teeth in molar teeth with pulp or periapical disease: a report of five cases and literature review

• Published in: BMC oral health 2023-10, Vol.23 (1), p.1-738, Article 738
• Main Authors: Chen, Mengxi, Bai, Xinna, Wang, Xiangzhu, Xie, Xiaoli, Chen, Minmin
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Abnormalities; Case Report; Case reports; Cold; Cone-beam computed tomography scans; Dental pulp; Dentition; Double teeth; Endodontics; Fused teeth; Geminated teeth; Gum disease; Literature reviews; Molars; Pain; Root canal therapy; Root canals; Teeth
• ISSN: 1472-6831; 1472-6831
• DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03463-4

Background Double teeth are usually the result of an abnormality in the developing tooth germ. Double teeth can occur in either the primary or permanent dentition, with the majority of cases concerning permanent teeth reported in the anterior teeth and less frequently in the molar teeth. Case presentation This report illustrates five cases of double teeth in molars with pulp and periapical disease, including one case of geminated teeth and four cases of fused teeth. Radiographic findings revealed the presence of extra teeth on the buccal aspect of the molar in five cases, with or without communication between the two root canal systems. Root canal treatment was performed by using CBCT and a dental operating microscope. The treatment outcome was good in all five cases. Conclusion The diagnosis and treatment of double teeth requires special attention. The root canal system should be carefully explored to obtain a full understanding of the anatomy, allowing it to be fully cleaned and obturated. Proper anatomical structure analysis prior to treatment facilitates the development of an appropriate treatment plan, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful treatment both aesthetically and functionally. Keywords: Cone-beam computed tomography scans, Geminated teeth, Fused teeth, Double teeth, Root canal therapy, Case report