Development of periapical granuloma derived from the palatal dental groove

Abstract

Palatal grooves are developmental dental anomalies of embryological origin, typically located on the palatal surface of the upper lateral incisors. They originate in the central fossa and extend toward the dental apex, crossing the cingulum, with variations in length and depth. Their morphological characteristics are closely linked to both periodontal and pulpal complications due to their predisposition to plaque accumulation. The prognosis is uncertain, as it depends on the apical extension, groove depth, and patient care. This article presents a clinical case of a 23-year-old patient with a deeply grooved upper right lateral incisor, which contributed to the development of a periodontal pocket, bone loss, and ultimately led to tooth extraction. The site was subsequently treated with guided bone regeneration and temporarily rehabilitated using the same adapted tooth, showing satisfactory healing and favorable evolution. This case highlights the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in managing complex morphological anomalies, as well as the need for thorough clinical examination to avoid misdiagnosis.