Mandibular talon cusp: A rare presentation with the literature review

Abstract

A talon cusp is a supernumerary structure projecting from the dento-enamel junction to a variable distance towards the incisal edge of an anterior tooth. It consists of enamel, dentine and a variable amount of pulp tissue. Hyperactivity of the enamel organ during morpho-differentiation has been attributed to its formation. It has esthetic and functional concerns. Reports of a mandibular talon cusp are rare in the literature. To the best of our knowledge, only 14 cases have been reported, of which only 2 cases in mandibular left central incisors. We report the second instance of a talon cusp in the lingual aspect of the mandibular left central incisor and the first such report in a patient of Libyan origin. A talon cusp is an odontogenic anomaly, which can cause occlusal interferences, displacement of the affected tooth and speech difficulties. Early diagnosis of a talon cusp helps in selecting the appropriate treatment procedure and to avoid future complications.