Analysis of apical third root canal morphology of the palatal root of maxillary first molar and its proximity to maxillary sinus: A cone-beam computed tomographic study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the angulation of the apical exit from radiographic apex of palatal root of maxillary first molar, to measure the distance between radiographic apex and apical exit of palatal root of maxillary first molar and to measure the distance of apical exit of palatal root of maxillary first molar from maxillary sinus floor. Materials and Methods: A total of 118 untreated, well-developed maxillary first molars were selected on cone-beam computed tomography scans. Data were collected and viewed by invivo5 software. Descriptive statistical analysis was given as mean value. Results: Radiographic apex and apical exit did not coincide in the large number of samples. The palatal root of maxillary first molar was found to be in direct contact with the floor of maxillary sinus in maximum samples. Conclusion: Apical exit does not coincide with the radiographic apex in all the cases. The distance between radiographic apex and apical foramina or apical exit ranges from 0 to 1.43 mm. The apical exit or apical foramina are in direct contact with maxillary sinus floor in 75% cases.