Concrescence — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateAnatomy (Head & Neck)ConcrescenceMFDS Part 1

Two adjacent maxillary molars have separate crowns, dentine and pulp systems, but their root surfaces are united and both teeth move together during attempted extraction. Which dental anomaly is present?

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Correct answer: B — Concrescence

Concrescence is the union of two adjacent teeth by cementum alone, usually involving their root surfaces. The crowns, dentine and pulp systems remain separate. It may be developmental (“true” concrescence) or acquired through additional cementum deposition, so it is inaccurate to state that it always arises only after root formation is complete. Fusion involves union between two developing tooth germs with dentine continuity. Gemination is an attempted division of one tooth germ. Dens evaginatus is an accessory enamel-dentine cusp, while dilaceration is an abnormal angulation or curvature of the crown or root. Concrescence is clinically important because an adjacent tooth may move or be unintentionally removed during extraction.

Reference: Palermo D, Davies-House A. Unusual finding of concrescence. BMJ Case Reports. 2016. https://casereports.bmj.com/content/2016/bcr-2016-214597