Analysis of the internal anatomy of mandibular molars using different cone-beam computed tomography protocols

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the root canal anatomy variations of permanent mandibular molars using three different cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) protocols. Material and methods: Thirty-five freshly extracted first and second mandibular molars were collected and subjected to three CBCT protocols: i-CAT Classic (ICC); i-CAT Next Generation (ICN), and PreXion 3D (PXD). Images were evaluated by two previously calibrated and experienced endodontists. The morphological root canal configurations were classified according to Vertucci. Data were analyzed for frequency, and the binomial and Kappa tests were then performed (α = 0.05). Results: ICC and ICN were able to diagnose a higher percentage of anatomical variations in the mesial roots. In this same root, Vertucci’s type V was the most prevalent, and in distal was the type I. In comparisons of CBCT techniques for agreement, significant differences in the mesial root canals were found in the following: ICC versus (vs) ICN; ICC vs PXD; and ICN vs PXD (p <0.001). However, there were no statistical differences in the distal root canals (p >0.05). The level of agreement in mesial roots was poor or absent, while in distal was moderate.