The palato-gingival groove. A cause of failure in root canal treatment.

The authors describe a clinical case of a palato-gingival groove on a maxillary central incisor with associated localized periodontal disease and pulp necrosis. The general clinician's initial diagnosis was incorrect; this led to incomplete treatment and subsequent loss of the tooth. Recognition of the palato-gingival groove is critical, especially because of its diagnostic complexity and the problems that may arise if it is not properly interpreted and treated.