Selective Reduction of Talon Cusps- A Case Series.

Talon cusps associated with permanent incisors are a rare occurrence but can cause numerous complications. When treatment is indicated options include radical or selective reduction of the accessory cusp, but there is no standard protocol for management.

STUDY DESIGN: Patients referred to the Dublin Dental University Hospital for treatment of talon cusps were identified, contacted and consent obtained. Clinical notes, photographs and radiographs were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS: Eleven patients with 14 talon cusps were identified. The age ranged from 8-15 with a mean of 11 years. Four teeth had radical talon cusp reduction carried out and 10 teeth underwent selective reduction. Follow up ranged from 3-66 months. Technical information from these cases was used to devise a protocol for selective reduction.

CONCLUSIONS: Selective reduction is a valuable technique for managing talon cusps. It is a conservative approach which can be employed before an incisor has reached maturity and is acceptable in young children.