Pathology · single question
Concrescence is a dental anomaly where two adjacent teeth are united by cementum only. What is the best method to identify concrescence?
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Correct answer: C. Periapical radiograph showing cementum fusion of roots
- A. Transillumination evaluates cracks and interproximal caries — not root fusion anomalies.
- B. Clinical probing cannot detect root-level cementum fusion.
- C. Correct. Concrescence is identified RADIOGRAPHICALLY — a periapical or panoramic radiograph reveals the fusion of the roots of two adjacent teeth by cementum, with no dentin or pulp chamber union (unlike fusion). The radiograph shows two teeth with merged root surfaces without a visible PDL space between them at the fusion site.
- D. Cold testing evaluates pulp vitality — not anatomical root anomalies.