Bhuvaneswari Birla Bose^1,, Sabitha Sudarsan²

Purpose: Developmental radicular anomalies include the palatogingival groove, the distolingual groove and the radicular groove. Developmental infoldings may result in defects that can provide a pathway for pulpal pathology, and consequently periodontal destruction. Various studies have shown different treatment approaches for this developmental anomaly. In this case report, we aimed to clinically evaluate the sequelae of palatogingival groove and its clinical management effectively. Methods: A 27-year old male patient attended the outpatient department of Periodontics, Ragas Dental College & Hospital, Uthandi, Chennai, South India with a complaint of dull gnawing pain in the left maxillary central incisor region for the past six months. Clinical examination confirmed the presence of palatogingival groove on tooth no. 22. An interdisciplinary treatment with endodontic and periodontal management was opted. After completion of root canal treatment, flap was raised in 22 region and the unique semilunar bone defect near the apex of the tooth was debrided, bone graft place and flap sutured. The patient was recalled after one, three and six month interval. Results: The combined treatment approach was successful and the tooth was saved from further deterioration. Conclusion: Early detection of this developmental anomaly is essential to preserve the life of the tooth for both functional and esthetic purpose.

tooth abnormalities, palatogingival / palatoradicular groove, localised periodontal disease, therapy outcome