<i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical Approaches

<i>Dens invaginatus</i> is a developmental dental anomaly characterized by the infolding of the enamel organ into the dental papilla during early odontogenesis. This process leads to a broad spectrum of anatomical variations, ranging from minor enamel-lined pits confined to the crown to...

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Main Authors: Abayomi O. Baruwa, Craig Anderson, Adam Monroe, Flávia Cracel Nogueira, Luís Corte-Real, Jorge N. R. Martins
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-07-01
Series:Medicina
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/61/7/1281
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author Abayomi O. Baruwa
Craig Anderson
Adam Monroe
Flávia Cracel Nogueira
Luís Corte-Real
Jorge N. R. Martins
author_facet Abayomi O. Baruwa
Craig Anderson
Adam Monroe
Flávia Cracel Nogueira
Luís Corte-Real
Jorge N. R. Martins
author_sort Abayomi O. Baruwa
collection DOAJ
description <i>Dens invaginatus</i> is a developmental dental anomaly characterized by the infolding of the enamel organ into the dental papilla during early odontogenesis. This process leads to a broad spectrum of anatomical variations, ranging from minor enamel-lined pits confined to the crown to deep invaginations extending through the root, occasionally communicating with periodontal or periapical tissues. The internal complexity of affected teeth presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly in severe forms that mimic root canal systems or are associated with pulpal or periapical pathology. Maxillary lateral incisors are most frequently affected, likely due to their unique developmental timeline and morphological susceptibility. Although various classification systems have been proposed, Oehlers’ classification remains the most clinically relevant due to its simplicity and correlation with treatment complexity. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, especially cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), have revolutionized the identification and classification of these anomalies. CBCT-based adaptations of Oehlers’ classification allow for the precise assessment of invagination extent and pulpal involvement, facilitating improved treatment planning. Contemporary therapeutic strategies now include calcium-silicate-based cement sealing materials, endodontic microsurgery for inaccessible anatomy, and regenerative endodontic procedures for immature teeth with necrotic pulps. Emerging developments in artificial intelligence, genetic research, and tissue engineering promise to further refine diagnostic capabilities and treatment options. Early detection remains critical to prevent complications such as pulpal necrosis or apical disease. A multidisciplinary, image-guided, and patient-centered approach is essential for optimizing clinical outcomes in cases of <i>dens invaginatus</i>.
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spelling doaj-art-652bca0cca944fe48fb86c963ed1e3d22025-07-25T13:29:37ZengMDPI AGMedicina1010-660X1648-91442025-07-01617128110.3390/medicina61071281<i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical ApproachesAbayomi O. Baruwa0Craig Anderson1Adam Monroe2Flávia Cracel Nogueira3Luís Corte-Real4Jorge N. R. Martins5Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Ajman University, Ajman 346, United Arab EmiratesPrivate Practice, Biloxi, MS 39532, USAPrivate Practice, Vista, CA 92083, USAPrivate Practice, 4700-262 Braga, PortugalDepartment of Endodontics, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, PortugalFaculdade de Medicina Dentária, Universidade de Lisboa, 1600-277 Lisboa, Portugal<i>Dens invaginatus</i> is a developmental dental anomaly characterized by the infolding of the enamel organ into the dental papilla during early odontogenesis. This process leads to a broad spectrum of anatomical variations, ranging from minor enamel-lined pits confined to the crown to deep invaginations extending through the root, occasionally communicating with periodontal or periapical tissues. The internal complexity of affected teeth presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly in severe forms that mimic root canal systems or are associated with pulpal or periapical pathology. Maxillary lateral incisors are most frequently affected, likely due to their unique developmental timeline and morphological susceptibility. Although various classification systems have been proposed, Oehlers’ classification remains the most clinically relevant due to its simplicity and correlation with treatment complexity. Recent advances in diagnostic imaging, especially cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), have revolutionized the identification and classification of these anomalies. CBCT-based adaptations of Oehlers’ classification allow for the precise assessment of invagination extent and pulpal involvement, facilitating improved treatment planning. Contemporary therapeutic strategies now include calcium-silicate-based cement sealing materials, endodontic microsurgery for inaccessible anatomy, and regenerative endodontic procedures for immature teeth with necrotic pulps. Emerging developments in artificial intelligence, genetic research, and tissue engineering promise to further refine diagnostic capabilities and treatment options. Early detection remains critical to prevent complications such as pulpal necrosis or apical disease. A multidisciplinary, image-guided, and patient-centered approach is essential for optimizing clinical outcomes in cases of <i>dens invaginatus</i>.https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/61/7/1281<i>dens invaginatus</i>endodonticsdental anomalyroot canal therapytreatment
spellingShingle Abayomi O. Baruwa
Craig Anderson
Adam Monroe
Flávia Cracel Nogueira
Luís Corte-Real
Jorge N. R. Martins
<i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical Approaches
Medicina
<i>dens invaginatus</i>
endodontics
dental anomaly
root canal therapy
treatment
title <i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical Approaches
title_full <i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical Approaches
title_fullStr <i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical Approaches
title_full_unstemmed <i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical Approaches
title_short <i>Dens Invaginatus</i>: A Comprehensive Review of Classification and Clinical Approaches
title_sort i dens invaginatus i a comprehensive review of classification and clinical approaches
topic <i>dens invaginatus</i>
endodontics
dental anomaly
root canal therapy
treatment
url https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/61/7/1281
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