Dentinogenesis imperfecta: endodontic implications - Case report

Dentinogenesis imperfecta is a hereditary disorder resulting in defective d entin in both the primary and secondary dentitions. The complications of de ntinogenesis imperfecta are difficult to manage and provide a challenge to the dentist. This case report concerns treating an African American patient with dentinogenesis imperfecta who appeared for treatment with endodontic pathosis. It illustrates the need for appropriate and timely restorative tr eatment to prevent pulpal pathosis. Also demonstrated is the difficulty of endodontically treating dentinogenesis imperfecta teeth because of pulpal o bliteration and abnormal dentin mineralization. Early and correct diagnosis of dentinogenesis imperfecta is imperative to enable appropriate preventiv e interventions and optimal dental treatment. Although pulpal pathosis is r arely reported with dentinogenesis imperfecta, endodontic treatment is occa sionally necessary and has a guarded prognosis if initiated after pulp cana l obliteration has occurred.