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Radiology · single question

A 10-year-old's periapical radiograph shows very wide root canals on the central incisors. What is this?

  1. Taurodontism
  2. Normal finding for age (immature permanent teeth with open apices)
  3. Dentinogenesis imperfecta
  4. Internal root resorption
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Correct answer: B. Normal finding for age (immature permanent teeth with open apices)

In a 10-year-old, wide root canals of permanent central incisors are NORMAL and EXPECTED — these are immature permanent teeth still undergoing root development (apexogenesis). The apex is open and the canal walls are parallel (not tapered). Root completion typically occurs 2–3 years after eruption — around age 13–15 for incisors.
  • A. ❌ Taurodontism primarily affects posterior teeth (molars) with enlarged pulp chambers.
  • B. ✅ Normal finding — immature permanent teeth in a 10-year-old have wide canals and open apices; this is expected development.
  • C. ❌ Dentinogenesis imperfecta causes OBLITERATION (narrowing/obliteration) of pulp canals — opposite of widening.
  • D. ❌ Internal resorption is a pathological focal widening within the canal — not a developmental finding.

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