Taurodontism ("bull tooth") is an alteration in molar formation resulting in an appearance similar to that seen in cud-chewing animals. It has been identified in the teeth of Neanderthals.
The process may affect both decidual and permanent molars. It may be unilateral or bilateral.
Features:
(1) enlargement of the body and pulp chamber
(2) proportionate decrease in root length
One possible reference measure is the distance along a line drawn from the pulpal floor perpendicular to a line connecting the root tips.
Decrease in Distance Between the Root Tips and Pulpal Floor
Severity
Term
< 33%
mild
hypotaurodontism
33 to 66%
moderate
mesotaurodontism
> 66%
severe
hypertaurodontism
Occurrence:
(1) as an isolated trait
(2) in conjunction with cleft lip/palate
(3) in conjunction with a specific hereditary syndrome
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
