Successful non-surgical endodontic management of type III dens invaginatus by using cone-beam computed tomography: a case report

Abstract

Dens invaginatus (DI) is a rare malformation of a tooth caused by the invagination of tooth crown before biological mineralization occurs. In DI type III invagination extends beyond the cementum-enamel junction, with the second foramen extending into the periapical tissues or into the periapical area. DI type III may pose real challenges for the clinician, especially when endodontic treatment is required. Objective: The present case report describes the successful non-surgical endodontic management of a tooth with DI type III with the aid of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Case report: A 20-year-old male patient was referred for endodontic evaluation and treatment of the left maxillary lateral incisor (tooth #22), which presented a darker and unusual crown shape. Periapical radiography and CBCT scans revealed the presence of a type III DI, and a larger periapical lesion associated with external root resorption and discontinuous buccal cortical plate Results: The diagnosis of Oehlers type III DI with asymptomatic apical periodontitis was established, and non-surgical endodontic treatment was initiated. After 5 months, a decrease in the periapical lesion and arrest of external resorption was detected. The root canals were then filled, and the tooth restored. At the 3-years follow-up, clinical and imaging assessments revealed successful outcome of the treatment. Conclusion: CBCT is an inestimable tool for non-surgical endodontic management of teeth with complex internal anatomy, such as DI type III with associated large periapical lesion.