Tooth Fusion — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateAnatomy (Head & Neck)Tooth FusionMFDS Part 1

A child has a single enlarged anterior tooth with a developmental groove. Radiographic assessment indicates that two adjacent tooth germs united during morphodifferentiation, with continuity through enamel and dentine; two pulp canals remain distinguishable. Which developmental anomaly is present?

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Correct answer: B — Fusion

Fusion is the developmental union of two separate tooth germs, producing an enlarged tooth in which enamel and dentine are joined; separate or communicating pulp canals may remain. Gemination instead represents an attempted division of one tooth germ. Tooth counting can support this distinction, but it is not absolute because fusion with a supernumerary tooth may leave the apparent tooth count normal. Concrescence is union of already formed adjacent teeth by cementum alone, without dentinal continuity. Dilaceration is an abnormal bend in a crown or root, whereas taurodontism is characterised by an enlarged elongated pulp chamber and apically displaced pulpal floor.

Reference: AlKlayb SA, Divakar DD. An Uncommon Tooth Fusion of Mandibular Primary Lateral Incisor with Canine. Clinics and Practice. 2021;11(1):106-109. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27009195/