Endodontic treatment of developmental anomalies in posterior teeth: treatment of geminated/fused teeth--report of two cases.

AIM

Gemination or fusion is a rare occurrence in the mandibular posterior teeth. Endodontic treatment of these teeth needs special care and attention to the bizarre anatomy. The aim of this article is to describe the problems encountered and the strategy in treating such cases.

CASE REPORT

Two cases of complex endodontic treatment of fused/geminated teeth are presented. The first is an 11-year-old girl with an anomalous 'double' first mandibular molar and premolar diagnosed as having necrotic pulp with chronic apical abscess of endodontic origin; the second is a 16-year-old boy with 'double' second and supernumerary mandibular molars, who was diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis. Both cases were treated successfully in multiple appointments. The common features and treatment modalities are discussed.

KEY LEARNING POINTS

Failure to diagnose fused/geminated teeth leads to misdiagnosis and a treatment plan that could cause permanent damage and tooth loss. Generally, there is communication between root canal systems of fused/geminated teeth which should be treated as one entity. Use of magnification is an important aid during treatment.