Este caso clínico aborda el manejo de una anomalía de desarrollo dental poco común, el surco palatogingival de tipo III, que se presentó en un incisivo lateral superior asociado a un defecto periodontal y un tracto sinusal. La paciente experimentó dolor e inflamación, requiriendo un diagnóstico preciso mediante hallazgos clínicos y radiográficos. El tratamiento implicó la resección de una raíz adicional, curetaje de la lesión periapical y procedimientos de regeneración ósea guiada. La relevancia clínica reside en la correcta identificación de esta malformación para evitar tratamientos endodónticos innecesarios y en la demostración de la eficacia del abordaje quirúrgico y regenerativo para la preservación del diente y la regeneración periodontal a largo plazo, subrayando la importancia de un enfoque multidisciplinar individualizado.
BACKGROUND: The palatogingival groove is a developmental anomaly that originates in the central fossa and extends along the root surface, often resulting in periodontal, endodontic, or combined endodontic and periodontal involvement. The authors present a case of a type III palatogingival groove associated with a periodontal defect and a sinus tract managed successfully through surgical and regenerative treatment. CASE DESCRIPTION: A woman sought treatment at Clínica Dental ZOE in Zaragoza, Spain, with the chief symptoms of pain and swelling associated with tooth no. 7. Clinical and radiographic findings supported the diagnosis of type III palatogingival groove in the presence of a normal pulp. The additional root was resected, the periradicular lesion was curetted, and guided bone regeneration procedures were carried out. Long-term recall visits through 3 years confirmed successful retention of the tooth and periodontal regeneration in the absence of pathosis. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The authors describe an unusual clinical manifestation and emphasize the role of accurate diagnosis leading to avoidance of unnecessary endodontic treatment, providing a reference for similar clinical situations. Considering the broad spectrum of manifestations of palatogingival grooves, a case-by-case multidisciplinary approach to management is recommended.
Castells-Gasa N, Pablo ÓVD, Alonso-Ezpeleta Ó, Herrero-Hernández S, López AP, Conde A, et al. Management of a maxillary lateral incisor with a type III palatogingival groove and 2 roots. The Journal of the American Dental Association. 2026. doi:10.1016/j.adaj.2026.02.008
