Taurodontism
A dental anomaly characterized by enlarged pulp chambers and shortened tooth roots.
Taurodontism ('bull teeth') is a dental morphological variation where the pulp chamber is vertically enlarged at the expense of the roots, which are shortened. The furcation (where roots divide) is displaced apically. It affects permanent teeth more than primary, with prevalence ranging from 0.5-11.3% depending on the population studied. Taurodontism can be isolated or associated with syndromes (Klinefelter syndrome, Down syndrome, amelogenesis imperfecta). It's usually discovered incidentally on X-rays. Clinical significance includes difficulty with root canal treatment (enlarged pulp chamber, abnormal canal anatomy), increased risk of pulp exposure during crown preparation, and altered extraction techniques. Endodontic treatment requires modified approaches for the enlarged pulp chamber and shortened canals.