Talon cusp affecting permanent maxillary lateral incisors in 2 family members

Abstract

The term talon cusp refers to a relatively rare dental anomaly in which an accessory cusplike structure projects from the cingulum area or cement-enamel junction. The condition can occur in either maxillary or mandibular anterior teeth in both the primary and permanent dentitions. This article reports 2 cases of talon cusp affecting consanguineous first cousins: a case of bilateral talon cusps on the permanent maxillary lateral incisors of a 16-year-old girl, and a case of talon cusp on the maxillary permanent lateral incisor of an 11-year-old boy. The talon cusps caused clinical problems that were related to caries or occlusal interferences. The presence of the dental anomaly in 2 members of the same family suggests that genetic inheritance may be a causative (related) factor. Examination of relatives could facilitate early diagnosis of the talon cusp and aid in preventing carious and occlusal problems. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 1999;88: 90-2)