Abstract:
Introduction: An extensive knowledge of dental root and canal anatomy is
essential to clinicians performing endodontic treatment. It is well-known that
dental anatomy may be complex and display significant variation. Aim: The aim
of the present study was to classify the root number and the root canal
configurations of human mandibular first and second molars in a South African
sub-population using CBCT. Materials and methods: The study design was a
retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study. The sample size included 753
molars. The CBCT images of each individual mandibular first and second molar
were evaluated in coronal, sagittal and axial views. Classification of the canal
configurations of each root was made using the Vertucci classification system,
including the additions proposed by Sert and Bayirli. Classification of root
number was described as one, two, three, or four-roots. Results: Root anatomy:
Two-rooted configurations were demonstrated in the majority of first and
second molars (98.7% and 94%). One- and three-rooted molars were rare with
a prevalence ranging from 0.3% to 2.9%. Half of all three-rooted molars
presented with two distinct mesial roots. Four-rooted molars were found in
second molars only (0.5%). Canal anatomy: The most common canal type in
the mesial roots of mandibular first and second molars was Type IV (50% and
38%) followed by Type II (21% and 24%). The most common canal
configuration in the distal roots of the first and second molars was Type I (50%
and 81%) followed by Type V (20% and 10%). More than two mesial canals in
mandibular first and second molars were present in 21% and 17% of the sample.
More than two distal canals were demonstrated in first and second molars in 7%
and 2% of the sample. C-shaped canal systems were found in 0.5% of first
molars and 7.7% of second molars. Sex and age had no correlation to root or
canal configurations. Conclusion: More than two mesial canals were found in
about one-fifth of the sample. It is important for clinicians to be aware that a
number of mandibular molars may present with more intricate anatomy than
expected during endodontic treatment and that this may affect treatment
outcomes.
