A Three-rooted Deciduous Second Molar in a 13-year-old Caucasian Female
<i>Introduction:</i> Several reports have been published highlighting accessory root formation in permanent molars. These studies have shown higher incidence of occurrence of accessory roots in patients of Mongolian, Taiwanese, Korean, Inuit, Native American and Indian descent. Very few reports have been published with a focus on accessory root formation in the primary dentition, in particular in the Caucasian population. <i>Objective:</i> This study was aimed at drawing attention to a rare morphological development in the Caucasian population. <i>Case Presentation:</i> This report presents a case of a 13-year-old Caucasian female with a three-rooted mandibular second molar tooth #T. The tooth was surgically removed, with some degree of difficulty, and upon inspection of the tooth following removal, it was observed that an accessory root was present. <i>Conclusions:</i> The presence of an accessory root may be demonstrated radiographically, but often is only discovered after excavation of the pulp chamber or following removal of the tooth itself. As such, it is important for the astute clinician to consider the potential for the presence of an accessory root, and to appreciate the potential complications an accessory may cause during endodontic or surgical treatment. Appropriate imaging should be obtained preoperatively if an accessory root is suspected, and treatment planning should be adjusted accordingly, in order to optimize successful treatment.
Authors
- Daniel Traub (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6444-8328)
- C Ahern
- Robert Walsh
Institutions
- Hartford Hospital (US)
- Great Yarmouth College (GB)
- University of Southern Maine (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- International Journal of Medical Case Reports
- Published
- 2025-08-20
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmcr.20250403.13
- Primary Topic
- dental development and anomalies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00