Bilateral shovel shaped maxillary central incisors in a non-syndromic adult: a distinct morphological presentation

Abstract

Shovel-shaped incisors represent a distinct morphological variation of permanent maxillary teeth characterized by prominent marginal ridges enclosing a deep lingual fossa. Although shovel shaped incisors are commonly observed as a population related morphological trait, particularly in Asian groups, their occurrence as a well-expressed (Type 3), bilateral form involving maxillary central incisors in a non-syndromic individual is less frequently documented in clinical literature. This report describes a case of bilateral shovel-shaped permanent maxillary central incisors in a 56-year-old medically healthy female who presented for routine dental examination. Clinical intraoral assessment revealed pronounced lingual marginal ridges and a deep lingual fossa in both maxillary central incisors. The morphological findings were confirmed using die stone cast models, traced diagrams, and intraoral periapical radiography, which demonstrated normal root morphology and periapical status. No additional dental anomalies or systemic associations were identified. Although typically asymptomatic, shovel-shaped incisors may predispose individuals to plaque accumulation, dental caries, occlusal disturbances, and esthetic concerns. Accurate recognition of this morphological trait is important for preventive and restorative dental care and holds significance in dental anthropology and forensic identification.