Taurodontism
Pronunciation: tor-oh-DON-tizm
A morphological anomaly of molar teeth characterised by an enlarged pulp chamber with apical displacement of the pulp floor and furcation, producing a radiographic appearance likened to a 'bull tooth.'
Full Definition
Taurodontism is a developmental dental anomaly, first described by Sir Arthur Keith, in which multirooted teeth — most commonly molars — exhibit an apically shifted furcation and a correspondingly enlarged pulp chamber. The condition is classified as hypotaurodont, mesotaurodont, or hypertaurodont based on the degree of pulp chamber enlargement and apical furcation displacement. Radiographically, the affected teeth have a rectangular or trapezoid crown form with a large pulp chamber and short root trunks. Taurodontism may occur in isolation or in association with systemic syndromes such as Klinefelter syndrome, amelogenesis imperfecta, or tricho-dento-osseous syndrome. Editors should note the correct spelling ends in '-tism' and that 'taurodont' is the adjectival form.
Usage
Usage note: Adjectival form is 'taurodont' (e.g., 'taurodont molar'). Avoid 'taurodontia,' which is a non-standard variant. The condition should be reported in radiograph findings when identified, as it has implications for endodontic treatment planning.
In Context
- "Radiographic examination revealed taurodontism affecting all four first permanent molars, characterised by an enlarged pulp chamber and a markedly apically positioned furcation." — Paediatric dental radiology report
- "When taurodontism is identified incidentally on a panoramic radiograph, the report should note any associated systemic syndrome features that may warrant further investigation." — Radiographic reporting guidelines