Carabelli tubercle is a small protuberance on the surface of molars found in some individuals. The spelling of this word can be a challenge due to the presence of different phonemes. The correct phonetic transcription of this word is /kəˈræbəli ˈtuːbərkl/. The first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound. The next syllable is pronounced as ‘ra’ (/rə/) with a ‘b’ (/b/) sound in between. The final syllable is pronounced as ‘cli’ (/kli/) with a ‘bee’ (/bi/) and ‘er’ (/ər/) in between.
Carabelli tubercle refers to a small extra cusp or protrusion found on the lingual (inner) side of the upper first permanent molars in human dentition. It is named after the Hungarian dentist, Georg Carabelli, who first described it in the 19th century.
This tubercle appears as an additional elevation on the mesiopalatal aspect of the tooth and is located above the mesial marginal ridge. It is often described as a small bump or tubercle, varying in size, shape, and prominence among individuals. Typically, it is more pronounced in Caucasians compared to other ethnic groups.
Carabelli tubercle originates during tooth development or odontogenesis and is considered to be an accessory cusp. It is formed due to an additional growth of enamel tissue, resulting in an extra prominence on the occlusal surface of the tooth.
Although Carabelli tubercle is a minor dental anatomical variation, it holds significant clinical importance. It is often used as a characteristic feature to identify and differentiate human dental remains in forensic anthropology and archeology. Additionally, dental professionals may also use its presence as a diagnostic tool for classification and identification of dental malocclusion and other occlusal abnormalities.
Overall, Carabelli tubercle is a unique anatomical structure found on the inner side of the upper first permanent molars, which may have implications in dental research, clinical practice, and forensic investigations.
A small tubercle, resembling a supernumerary cuspid (though not on the grinding surface), found occasionally on the lingual surface of one or more of the molar teeth.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Carabelli tubercle" is a dental term that refers to a specific extra tubercle or cusp found on the inner side of the upper first molar teeth.
The etymology of the term can be broken down as follows:
1. Carabelli: This word is derived from the surname of an Austrian dentist, Georg Carabelli (1787-1842), who first described this variation in tooth morphology. Carabelli made significant contributions to the field of dentistry and is best known for his research on dental anatomy.
2. Tubercle: In dentistry, the term "tubercle" refers to a small, rounded prominence or bump on the surface of a tooth. The word "tubercle" itself originates from the Latin word "tuberculum", meaning a small swelling or knob.