Studies on root enamel (2). Enamel pearls. A review of their morphology, localization, nomenclature, occurrence, classification, histogenesis and incidence.
Enamel pearls are one of a number of different enamel structures that can be found on the roots of deciduous and permanent teeth. They have a distinct predilection for the furcation areas of molar teeth, particularly the maxillary third and second molars. They can consist primarily of enamel, but in most instances, a core of dentin is contained within them. On rare occasions, even pulpal tissues can be found. Enamel pearls usually occur singularly, but up to 4 enamel pearls have been observed on the same tooth. Depending on the study, enamel pearls on permanent molar teeth have an incidence rate of between 1.1%-9.7% with distinct differences among racial and national groups. The incidence of enamel pearls increases greatly in histological studies, suggesting that they are often obscured by a covering of cementum.
Division of Periodontics, Columbia University, School of Dental and Oral Surgery, New York, NY 10032.
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Moskow
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Canut
D000565:Ameloblasts; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000002:abnormalities*; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D014071:Tooth Abnormalities / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D014092:Tooth Root