Short root anomaly in families and its association with other dental anomalies

In the present study, we collected a family series with short root anomaly in order to analyze the inheritance pattern of the condition. Another aim w as to identify in these families an association with other dental anomalies , such as tooth agenesis, peg-shaped lateral incisors, supernumeraries, ect opia, and such morphological characteristics as invaginations, taurodontism , and a tendency to root resorption. Mesiodistal dimensions of the crowns o f the affected teeth were measured in order to reveal any association with reduction or increase in tooth size. The apparent genetic heterogeneity of the pedigrees did not permit definitive conclusions as to the mode of inher itance. Autosomal dominant transmission of short root anomaly was seen in 3 /8 families. In 2/8 families, the condition was seen in siblings but not in parents. An association with tooth agenesis and ectopic canines was noted, the prevalences of which were 46% and 33%, respectively. We stress the imp ortance of not misdiagnosing this anomaly as resorption.