Dilaceration is an unusual bend in the tooth root(s). The curvature usually results from trauma and can occur anywhere along the root. Since the tooth crown is clinically normal, the degree of dilacerations can only be detected radiographically.
Dilaceration may range from mild curvature (Figure 37) to severe bending (Figure 38).
The curvature is more visible if it occurs in a plane perpendicular to the central X-ray beam. If it occurs parallel to the beam, it casts a shadow similar to a radiopaque cyst or bone deposit because the axis is oriented toward or away from the beam.