Paramolar tubercle (Parastyle) in primary molars of Davangere (India) children: A retrospective study

Abstract

Aim: To estimate the prevalence of paramolar tubercle (extra cusp) in primary molars of Indian children. Materials and Methods: A survey was conducted in children aged 2-8 years reporting during the period from 2006 to 2008. For recording paramolar tubercle, the definition given by Scott and Turner was employed. Subjects found with paramolar structure were further subjected to radiographic examination and impressions were made for further analysis of the paramolar tubercle. Results: Paramolar tubercle was noticed in eight patients (five boys and three girls). Among the eight patients, one patient had bilateral presence of paramolar tubercle. In seven patients, it was found on the right side and in two patients, it was found on the left side. We found type I in one case, type II in one case, type III in four cases, type IV in two cases and type V in one patient. Based on the different morphological patterns of paramolar tubercle observed during this study, we propose a new diagnostic classification system for better grading and understanding this rare dental trait, particularly for primary molars. Conclusion: As the frequency of paramolar tubercle is very rare, more studies involving different races have to be performed, rather involving individual cases, to show its unilateral/bilateral presence, sexual predominance and also to analyze the size and pattern of the paramolar tubercle.