Variations of Tooth Root Morphology in a Romano- British Population

Abstract

Tooth morphology can provide valuable evidence in studies of prehistoric, historic and modern populations. The aims of this study were to derive data for root anomalies in a Romano-British population, to investigate associations between anomalies, and to compare findings with other populations to provide evidence concerning etiology. An additional aim was to develop further the methodology and reproducibility in such studies. From the Christian cemetery of 3rd-5th century AD in Poundbury, UK, 385 skulls were suitable for examination. Radiographic technique was standardized with custom-made skull supports and criteria established for each anomaly. There was a high level of reproducibility for the diagnosis of each anomaly. The prevalence of the anomalies in individuals was: three-rooted mandibular first molars 1.8%, fused roots 14.0%, cuneiform roots 16.9%, taurodontism 26.9%, and invaginated teeth 1.1%. There were highly significant (P < 0.001) associations between fused and cuneiform roots, and both were significantly associated with third
molar hypodontia (P < 0.002; P < 0.05). These reductions in root morphology were commonly bilateral and more frequent in females, as is hypodontia. The findings of this study are compatible with a multifactorial etiology of these anomalies, showing continuous variation in root morphology. The gradients of anomalies observed are also compatible with the concept of morphogenetic fields.