Talon cusps occurring concurrently with dens invaginatus on a permanent maxillary lateral incisor: A case report and literature review

Abstract

A talon cusp is a prominent accessory horn-like structure that projects from the cingulum or cementoenamel junction of the maxillary or mandibular teeth. It can occur in primary and permanent dentition and can lead to occlusal interference, irritation of the tongue, pulpal necrosis, caries, and periodontal problems. Talon cusp has been reported to affect both sexes, and may be unilateral or bilateral. Talon cusps occur most often on the palatal surface of permanent maxillary incisors. A comprehensive literature review revealed only 6 reported cases of facial talon cusps. A talon cusp occurring simultaneously with dens invaginatus in a tooth is extremely rare; to date, only 9 case reports have been published. This article presents a unique case of concurrent dens invaginatus and palatal and facial talon cusps in the right maxillary central incisor of a 12-year-old girl. © 2014, Academy of General Dentistry. All rights reserved.