Eruption of Irradiation-produced Rootless Teeth in Monkeys

Abstract

By means of X-irradiation, root formation was completely inhibited in Macacus rhesus monkeys. These teeth erupted into the oral cavity without root formation, pulpal proliferation, or periodontal ligaments. They were held firmly in place by connective tissue fibers of the follicular sac and were in functional occlusion. The eruption of these teeth appears to be dependent upon growth of the folicular sac and/or alveolar bone.