Prevalence of radix entomolaris in India and its comparison with the rest of the world

Abstract

A successful endodontic treatment can be achieved by proper cleaning, shaping and disinfection and obturation of the root canal system. Mandibular molars requiring endodontic therapy have several variations. A mandibular molar usually has two roots but occasionally, it might have additional roots also. The purpose of this article is to determine the regional predilection of radix entomolaris in permanent mandibular first molar in India and its comparison to rest of world. A search was undertaken to identify published research articles related to radix entomolaris in mandibular first molars. Sixty-four research articles were analyzed. Articles were assessed in relation to demographic location of radix entomolaris. Also, the type of study and the analytic tool employed for its assessment was evaluated. Results were tabulated and statistically analyzed. Statistical test revealed a significant variation between the India and rest of world. This research reported that regional predilection of radix entomolaris in mandibular first molar varies significantly. In India the highest incidence of radix entomolaris was observed in north India with 24%, whereas in world China reported the highest prevalence of 32% and the minimum was observed in Africa at 0%. India relied on conventional radiography for its diagnosis whereas rest of the world primarily utilized in-vitro studies and advanced radiography for its diagnosis.