What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Bull Teeth
• Large Pulp Chambers in the Molars

What is Taurodontism? (Definition/Background Information)

• Taurodontism is a disorder of tooth development and occurs most commonly in permanent molar teeth
• It refers to an elongation of the pulp chamber of the tooth, which can cause the tooth to lie deep in the jaw (aveolar process)
• At this time the cause of taurodontism is unknown

(Source: Taurodontism; Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS), USA.)

Who gets Taurodontism? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Taurodontism is a rare congenital disorder. The presentation of symptoms may occur when an individual develops permanent molar teeth
• Both males and females may be affected
• The condition has been reported in the Eskimo population
• In addition, the condition also affects approximately 2.5% of adult Caucasians and about 4.8% Trinidadian individuals (the latter data is from premolar stage of tooth development)

What are the Risk Factors for Taurodontism? (Predisposing Factors)

• A positive family history may be an important risk factor, since Taurodontism can be inherited
• Currently, no other risk factors have been clearly identified for Taurodontism

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Taurodontism? (Etiology)

• The genetic cause of Taurodontism or pattern of inheritance is not known at the present time
• The condition may occur as part of a syndrome, such as Taurodontia, Absent Teeth, Sparse Hair Syndrome

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Taurodontism?

The signs and symptoms of Taurodontism may include:

• Abnormality of dental enamel
• Taurodontia

(Source: Taurodontism; Genetic and Rare Disease Information Center (GARD) of National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS), USA.)

How is Taurodontism Diagnosed?

Taurodontism is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Complete physical examination
• Thorough medical history evaluation
• Assessment of signs and symptoms
• Dental examinations
• Laboratory tests
• Imaging studies
• Biopsy studies, if necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Taurodontism?

The complications of Taurodontism may include:

• Tooth fragility and breakage
• Tooth pain

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Taurodontism Treated?

There is no cure for Taurodontism, since it is a genetic condition.

• The treatment is usually given to manage the signs and symptoms and any complication that develops
• Dental procedures may be necessary to address molar teeth that may cause health problems.

How can Taurodontism be Prevented?

Taurodontism may not be preventable, since it is a genetic disorder.

• If there is a family history of the condition, then genetic counseling will help assess risks, before planning for a child
• Active research is currently being performed to explore the possibilities for treatment and prevention of inherited and acquired genetic disorders

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended.

What is the Prognosis of Taurodontism? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Taurodontism is dependent upon the severity of the signs and symptoms and associated complications, if any
• The condition is not life-threatening, and may not impact the lifespan 

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Taurodontism:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/rare-disorders/