Root Canal Configuration Research Articles

Influence of the incorporation of small-group practical seminars to a traditional lecture for the understanding of root canal morphology classification systems.

This study aimed to assess if the incorporation of small-group practical seminars into a traditional lecture format improved the understanding and learning of the root canal classification systems in undergraduate students. A small-group practical seminar was designed for 3rd year undergraduate students. The seminar consisted of the analysis of a guided summary of root canal morphology classifications, a participative discussion of several cases and drawing exercises of several internal anatomies based on the different classifications in templates presenting the external anatomy of different dental groups. Students were inquired about their perspectives on the different classifications and the learning strategies with an anonymous questionnaire. The knowledge acquired was assessed in an exam. The scores obtained were compared using the Mann-Whitney U-test with those obtained in the cohort of the previous year in which only the traditional lecture was delivered. Students' scores (mean = 7.7; SD = 2.5) were significantly higher (p = .006) than those from the previous cohort (mean = 6.9; SD = 2.3). Most students agreed that Ahmed's classification system was the most complete (98.8%) and intuitive (84%), but also the most difficult to understand (67%). All the students believed that the learning activity helped them understand the new classification system. The incorporation of small-group practical seminars into traditional lecture improved the understanding and learning of root canal configurations in undergraduate students. Students rated the classification system suggested by Ahmed etal. as the most complete and intuitive out of the three systems, but also the most difficult to learn.

A Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Analysis of Mesiobuccal Root Canals of Maxillary First Molars.

The maxillary first molar is crucial for proper bite formation and jaw positioning in adulthood. The prevalence of dental caries in the study's sample population suggests it is a common candidate for endodontic therapy. Multiple studies have shown that the canal and root morphology of the maxillary first molar are abnormal. The distobuccal and palatal roots of 286 maxillary first molars were removed at the furcation. The mesiobuccal roots were then imaged using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) on all specimens. The specimens were analyzed in comparison with one another. The following factors were studied. The number and arrangement of canals, as described by Vertucci; the presence or absence of an isthmus, as described by Kim; the canal curvature angle, as measured by the Schneider method; characteristics such as calcified segments, lateral canals, and an apical delta.For the flow analysis, CBCT was utilized to examine the root channel architecture of 286 mesiobuccal (MB) permanent maxillary first molar. Type I canal arrangement was found in 51.6% of teeth, Type II in 33.3%, Type III in 4.6%, Type IV in 4.2%, Type V in 2.5%, and Type VII in 1.5%. Type I, II, III, and V isthmus were each present in 26%, 6.7%, 9.5%, and 10.2% of the samples, respectively. Teeth with MB1 canal angulations of 0-20 degrees, 21-40 degrees, and more than 40 degrees were found in 56, 188, and 41 teeth, respectively. From 0 to 20 degrees, 21 to 40 degrees, and more than 40 degrees, 15 teeth, 88 teeth, and 25 teeth, respectively, had angulations in their MB2 canals. Only 9.8% of the samples had lateral canals, while 16.1% had both accessory canals and apical deltas. There were 19 cases with calcified segments in the coronal third of the MB1 canal and 13 cases in the middle third. There were no calcifications at the distal end of the MB1 canal. Thirteen of the specimens showed calcification only in the most caudal third of the MB2 canal, whereas the middle and distal thirds were uncalcified. Utilizing a noninvasive approach, a CBCT scan has the capacity to provide valuable insights into the root canal configuration.

Multipopulation evaluation of the internal morphology of mandibular first premolars from different South American countries. A micro-computed tomography study

ObjectiveTo evaluate and compare several anatomical parameters of mandibular first premolars from individuals from different Latin American countries using micro-computed tomography. DesignFive hundred extracted mandibular first premolars from Brazilian, Argentinian, Chilean, Colombian, and Ecuadorian individuals were scanned using micro-computed tomography (n = 100 teeth/country). Root canal configurations were classified according to established parameters. Analyses also included: canal volume and surface area, structure model index, distances from the apical foramen to the root apex or the cementoenamel junction, major/minor apical canal diameters, canal orifice shape, and prevalence of ramifications. ResultsA single root was the most common anatomy in all countries (range, 97%−100%). Vertucci’s type-I canal was the most frequent configuration (range, 36%−66%), followed by C-shaped and type-V canals. The oval-shaped canal orifice was the most predominant in all countries (range, 34%−58%), followed by the circular shape (range, 16%−47%). C-shaped canals occurred in all subpopulations (range, 14%−26%), always associated with radicular grooves. Ranges for canal ramifications were as follows: accessory canals, 36%−73%; lateral canals, 4%−12%; and apical delta, 4%−14% of the teeth. Many anatomic parameters differed significantly between countries (P < .05). ConclusionsVertucci’s types-I and -V, and C-shaped canals were the most prevalent configurations in the subpopulations investigated. Accessory canals and several complex anatomies were found, with some significantly different frequencies between countries.

Root Canal Morphology of Premolars in Saudis.

This study aimed to evaluate root number and morphological variations of the root canal system in maxillary and mandibular premolars among the Saudi subpopulation. A total of 500 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were assessed, including 2442 maxillary and mandibular premolars. The evaluation encompassed the number of roots and canals and their configuration based on the Vertucci classification. Gender differences were considered, along with the position of premolars and unilateral or bilateral symmetry. Maxillary first premolars predominantly exhibited two roots (82.6%), followed by one root (16.3%) and three roots (0.97%), with a majority having two root canals (83.6%). Regarding maxillary second premolars, the most common morphology was one root (66.6%), with two root canals (40.5%) observed more frequently than one root canal (38.1%). Mandibular first and second premolars mainly featured one root (84.8% and 96.1%, respectively) with one root canal (70.8% and 90.2%, respectively), whereas two root canals were less prevalent (2.3% and 1.8%, respectively). Three canals and three roots were rarely found in mandibular premolars (0.3%). Regarding maxillary premolars, males exhibited significantly higher type IV and mandibular type I root configurations compared with females. Conversely, regarding mandibular premolars, females showed significant mandibular type V and higher type I root configurations compared with males. CBCT imaging facilitated precise assessment of root morphology and root canal configurations in maxillary and mandibular premolars. The present findings can aid dentists in diagnosing, evaluating case difficulty, and devising effective root canal treatments, particularly in patients from Saudi Arabia.

Evaluation of roots, root canal morphology, and bilateral symmetry of maxillary first molars in a Syrian subpopulation using cone beam computed tomography.

Successful endodontic treatments require a comprehensive knowledge of the root canal anatomy, so this study aimed to investigate the number of roots, configurations of root canals, and their bilateral symmetry of maxillary first molars in the Syrian subpopulation, and also the effect of gender on this symmetry. The study sample consisted of 250 cone beam computed tomography images (140 for females; and 110 for males), including 500 maxillary first molars. Images were investigated by two endodontists. Root number and canal configuration in each root were recorded, according to Vertucci classification, by studying the image atall levels (axial, coronal, sagittal, oplique, and three-dimensional) to assess the bilateral symmetry and its relation to gender. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS and the χ2 test was used to compare the bilateral symmetry in males and females. The most common shape of the maxillary first molars was three roots (97.6%). All the roots are symmetrical by 100% in both genders. The root canal configuration was mainly Vertucci type I classification in the distobuccally (73.6%), and palatal root (98%). While the most common types in mesial root were type II (33.3%), this root showed all different types of Vertucci classifications except type VIII, and the proportion of symmetry was (37.2%) without significant difference between the gender (p = .441). Most maxillary first molars in a Syrian population were three-rooted with fourroot canals (type II), the numbers of roots achieved perfect symmetry 100%, and higher than symmetry ratios in the number of canals and canals configurations (37.2%).

Endodontic management of Mandibular second premolar with aberrant root and canal morphology: a case report

A proper understanding about variations in root canal anatomy and confounding nature of human pulpal system plays a significant role in success of endodontic treatment. Presence of variations should always be considered even in teeth like mandibular second premolars which show very less frequency of unusual root canal anatomy. The case report presents diagnosis and successful endodontic management of mandibular left second premolar with a very rare and peculiar type of root and canal anatomy (Vertucci type V root canal configuration). Keywords: Aberrant root, Mandibular second premolar, Root canal, Variable canal anatomy.

EVALUATING THE VARIATION IN ROOT CANAL MORPHOLOGY OF MANDIBULAR PREMOLARS USING CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IN NORTH INDIAN POPULATION - AN IN VITRO STUDY

Aim:This invitro study aimed to evaluate the variation in root canal morphology of Mandibular premolars using CBCT in North Indian population. Methods and Material:In this invitro study 120 single rooted extracted mandibular first premolar teeth free of any root caries were included. The teeth were stored in 5.25% sodium hypochlorite for 30 minutes, then cleaned using ultrasonic scalers and finally stored in 10% formalin. The sample was subjected to 3D scan and images were obtained and evaluated to check root canal configuration using Vertuccis classification, shape of canal orifice and length of tooth. Statistical analysis used: The software used for the statistical analysis were SPSS (statistical package for social sciences) version 25.0 and MedCalc software. The statistical tests used were One-way ANOVA (Analysis of Variance) test and chi square test. Results: The results were drawn, and Type I was found to be maximum (80.0%) followed by Type V, Type II, Type IV, Type III. Type VI was minimum (0.8%). There were no samples found for Type VII and Type VIII. Maximum of oval shape was found with a percentage of 31.7% and minimum of 2 orifices in 2.5% of samples. The overall length of mandibular first premolar in north Indian population with a maximum of 25.60 mm and a minimum length of 17.30 mm. Conclusions: Hence concluding that mandibular premolar still stands a mystery in varied region and population in every single case attempted for endodontic treatment and thorough knowledge of the canal anatomy is must for successful endodontic treatment.

Morfologjia e rrënjëve dhe kanaleve të molarëve të tretë të poshtëm në popullatën e Mitrovicës – studim in vitro

For successful endodontic therapy, full knowledge of the morphology of the root canal is required, especially for complex cases such as lower third molars. The aim of this study was to investigate the root and canal morphology of mandibular third molars in Mitrovica. From our dental office in Mitrovica, 175 extracted mandibular third mo- lars were randomly selected. Each tooth was meticulously cleaned before the root canal anatomy and morphology were carefully examined. Under dental loupe at a 2.5x magnification, mandibular third molars were examined for root number and morphology, number of canals per root, root canal configuration according to the Vertucci classification, incidence of dilacerated roots, and C-shaped canals. 16.43% of the 175 mandibular third molars exam- ined had a root. Sixty-eight percent of the teeth had two roots. Three roots were present in 11% of the teeth. In this study, 4% of the teeth had four roots, while in 4% of cases the C-shaped canals were reported. Also, 6.5% of cases had a dilacerated root. Despite the fact that the anatomy and morphology of the root canal of the mandibular third mo- lar is quite different, these teeth generally have two roots in most cases.

Root Canal Configuration of Mandibular Anterior Teeth in Baghdad City by Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Root Canal Configuration of Mandibular Anterior Teeth in Baghdad City by Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Analysis of Root Canal Characteristics in Permanent Canine Teeth Among 270 Saudi Subjects: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study.

BACKGROUND An understanding of root canal morphology is vital for successful endodontic treatment. However, variations in the root canal system of permanent canines, especially in relation to population-based diversity, are not well-documented. This study thus aimed to analyze the root canal numbers, configurations, and bilateral symmetry in 1080 permanent canine teeth among 270 Saudi individuals using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), contributing to the existing body of knowledge and aiding clinicians in devising effective treatment strategies. MATERIAL AND METHODS The CBCT images of 270 participants, encompassing 1080 canines (540 pairs of upper and lower canines), were scrutinized for root and canal counts. Canal configurations were assessed based on Ahmed's and Vertucci's classifications. Bilateral symmetry in these parameters was recorded and the data were statistically analyzed. RESULTS The study revealed variable prevalence of multiple roots and canals in maxillary and mandibular canines. Ahmed's and Vertucci's type I canal configuration was predominantly observed. Notably, significant bilateral symmetry was noted in root and canal numbers, and canal configurations. CONCLUSIONS The most common configuration of permanent canines was a single root and canal, usually adhering to Ahmed's and Vertucci's type I classification. Mandibular canines showed a higher incidence of two canals than two roots. The extent of bilateral symmetry, especially in mandibular canines, could provide valuable insights for better contralateral tooth treatment planning.

A microcomputed tomographic analysis of the morphological variabilities and incidence of extra canals in mandibular first molar teeth in an Egyptian subpopulation

A well-protected microbial habitat may be present in the root and canal morphology, which is varied and complicated. Before initiating effective root canal treatment, a detailed knowledge of the root and canal anatomical variances in each tooth is a must. This study aimed to investigate the root canal configuration, apical constriction anatomy, location of the apical foramen, dentine thickness, and prevalence of accessory canals in mandibular molar teeth in an Egyptian subpopulation using micro-computed tomography (microCT). A total of 96 mandibular first molars were scanned using microCT, and 3D reconstruction was performed using Mimics software. The root canal configurations of each of the mesial and distal root were classified with two different classification systems. The prevalence and dentin thickness around middle mesial and middle distal canals were investigated. The number, location and anatomy of major apical foramina and the apical constriction anatomy analysed. The number and location of accessory canals were identified. Our findings showed that two separate canals (15%) and one single canal (65%) were the most common configuration in the mesial and distal roots, respectively. More than half of the mesial roots had complex canal configurations and 51% had middle mesial canals. The single apical constriction anatomy was the most common for both canals followed by the parallel anatomy. Disto-lingual and distal locations of the apical foramen are the most common location for both roots. Mandibular molars in Egyptians show a wide range of variations in root canal anatomy with high prevalence of middle mesial canals. Clinicians should be aware of such anatomical variations for successful root canal treatment procedures. A specific access refinement protocol and appropriate shaping parameters should be designated for each case to fulfil the mechanical and biological objectives of root canal treatment without compromising the longevity of treated teeth.

Root and canal anatomy of mandibular first molars using micro-computed tomography: a systematic review

BackgroundA thorough understanding of root and canal anatomy is crucial for successful root canal treatment outcomes. This systematic review aims to explore the published micro-CT studies investigated the anatomy of root and canal system in permanent mandibular first molars.MethodAn electronic search was performed on Web of science, PubMed, and Scopus. Micro-CT journal studies investigated the root and canal anatomy of permanent double-rooted mandibular first molars were included. Data on study characteristics, objectives of interest, specifications of the studies, and micro-CT specifications were extracted. Risk of bias assessment (ROB) of the included studies was performed using Anatomical Quality Assessment (AQUA) tool. The extracted data were presented in tables and figures to present and synthesise the results. A meta-analysis was performed for the studies related to the prevalence of Vertucci's canal configurations, middle mesial canal (MMC) configurations, and Fan's isthmus types.ResultsAmongst 1358 identified studies, thirty met the inclusion criteria. In terms of the objectives, the selected studies showed high anatomical variability in mandibular first molars. Twenty-two (73%), 25 (83%), and 12 (40%) of the studies reported the population/ethnicity, micro-CT specifications, and ethical approval, respectively. 28 (93%) studies did not disclose the method of sample size estimation. In only 6 (20%) of the studies, the authors had calibrated the assessment approaches. Mostly, a potential ROB was reported in domain 1 (objective(s) and subject characteristics) and domain 3 (methodology characterization). Whilst, low risk was reported in domains 2 (study design), 4 (descriptive anatomy), and 5 (reporting of results). The overall ROB was reported to be ''moderate'' in the vast majority of the studies (27/30). Meta-analysis results showed high levels of heterogeneity among the studies related to MMCs (I2 = 86%) and Fan's isthmus (I2 = 87%). As for the root canal configuration, pooled prevalence showed that Vertucci type IV and type I were the most prevalent in mesial and distal root canals, respectively.ConclusionBased on moderate risk of bias level of evidence, micro-CT studies have shown wide range of qualitative and quantitative data presentations of the roots and canals in mandibular first molars.Protocol and registration.The protocol of this systematic review was prospectively registered in the Open Science Framework database (https://osf.io) on 2022–06-20 with the registration number 10.17605/OSF.IO/EZP7K.

Internal Morphological Variability of Mandibular Premolars in North Indian Population

Aims: The current study aims to investigate the root canal morphology of root canals of mandibular premolar teeth via cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) among a sample of the north Indian population.&#x0D; Study Design: Retrospective observational study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Department of conservative dentistry and endodontics.&#x0D; Methodology: A total of 240 CBCT images were examined in the study. The Mandibular premolars were identified, and canal configurations were classified according to vertucci classification. Root canal configurations were investigated using a chi-square test.&#x0D; Results: Of the total 240 Mandibular premolars, vertucci type I was found in 86.66% in Mandibular first premolars followed by type v (8.33%) and type iv (5%). Vertucci type I was found in 96.6% in Mandibular second premolars followed by type v (1.66%), type iii (0.8%) and type viii (0.8%).&#x0D; Conclusion: The root morphology of Mandibular premolars in the north Indian population demonstrated a high degree of variability. However, the clinician should be aware about the possible anatomic variations of these teeth and their relationship with the adjacent anatomic structures while planning and performing endodontic, restorative, periodontal, and surgical procedures.

Evaluation of root and canal morphology of mandibular premolar amongst Saudi subpopulation using the new system of classification: a CBCT study

BackgroundThe clinician should have complete knowledge of the normal anatomy of the root as well as complexities in the root canal configuration for a better outcome, as missed or improper handling of the canal system can lead to the failure of an entire endodontic procedure. The present study aims to assess the morphology of roots and canals in permanent mandibular premolars in the Saudi subpopulation with a new classification system.MethodsThe present study includes 1230 mandibular premolars (645 first premolars and 585-second premolars) from 500 CBCT images of the patients, including retrospective data. iCAT scanner system (Imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA, USA) was used to obtain the images; scanning of 8 × 8 cm images was performed at 120 KVp and 5–7 mA with a voxel size of 0.2 mm. The new method of classification presented by Ahmed et al. 2017 was used to record and classify the root canal morphology, followed by recording the differences regarding the age and gender of the patients. Comparison of canal morphology in lower permanent premolars and its association with gender and age of the patients was done by Chi-square test/ Fisher exact test; the significance level was set at 5% (p ≤ 0.05).ResultsThe left mandibular 1st and 2nd premolars with one root were 47.31%, with two roots were 2.19%. However, three roots (0.24%) and C-shaped canals (0.24%) were reported only in the left mandibular 2nd premolar. The right mandibular 1st and 2nd premolars with one root were 47.56%, with two roots were 2.03%. The overall percentage of the number of roots and canals in the first and second premolars 1 PM 1 (88.38%), 2 PM 1 B 1 L 1 (3.5%), 2 PM B 1 L 1 (0.65%), 1 PM 1–2−1 (3.08%), 1 PM 1–2 (3.17%), 1 PM 1–2−1–2 (0.24%), 3 PMMB 1 DB 1 L1 (0.48%). However, the C-shaped canals (0.40%) were reported in right and left mandibular second premolars. No statistically significant difference was reported between mandibular premolars and gender. A statistically significant difference was reported between mandibular premolars and the age of the study subjects.ConclusionType I (1 TN 1) was the major root canal configuration in permanent mandibular premolars, which was higher among males. The CBCT imaging provides thorough details about the root canal morphology of lower premolars. These findings could support diagnosis, decision-making, and root canal treatment, for dental professionals.

Variations in Crown Size and Root Canal Configuration in a Sample of Human Permanent Maxillary and Mandibular Molars in Egyptian Population

Variations in Crown Size and Root Canal Configuration in a Sample of Human Permanent Maxillary and Mandibular Molars in Egyptian Population

Root and root canal morphology of permanent mandibular first and second molars in a Kuwaiti population: A retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study

AimEndodontic diseases typically affect the mandibular molars. Understanding the complex morphology of the root canal system and its variations is necessary for successful endodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphology of roots and root canals of mandibular first and second permanent molar teeth in a Kuwaiti population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and methodsCBCT images of 651 mandibular first and second molar teeth were obtained from specialist government dental centers. The age, sex, root canal configuration, and number and type of roots were recorded. The data were statistically analyzed. ResultsThe most common canal configuration in the mandibular first and second molars was type II (65.6% and 54.4%, respectively), with no significant difference seen between the sexes (p = 0.234). The canal configuration was significantly different between the mandibular first and second molars (p < 0.001). Most teeth had two roots (94.5%); split roots were common (92.6%) and the number thereof varied significantly. Radicular grooves were most common on the lingual side (4.9%). C-shaped canals were present in 43 (6.60%) teeth. Additionally, one tooth had a confluent middle mesial canal and nine (1.4%) had radix entomolaris. ConclusionMandibular molars in our Kuwaiti population typically had two split roots with type II and IV canal configurations. The prevalence rates of C-shaped canals, middle mesial canals, and radix entomolaris were remarkably low.

Roots and Root Canals Characterization of Permanent Mandibular Premolars Analyzed Using the Cone Beam and Micro Computed Tomography—A Systematic Review and Metanalysis

This current paper aims to review the literature on the root canal configuration (RCC) and root structure of permanent mandibular premolars. To find the published scientific literature on the RCC of mandibular premolars up to July 2022, a systematic search of four electronic databases was performed. The studies were selected, rendering to a predetermined point of reference: "mandibular 2nd premolar", "root and canal system", "morphology of root and canal", "root and canal configuration", and "morphology", along with "anatomy" and "mandibular premolars". Cross-referencing along with screening through the bibliographies of the chosen articles resulted in the identification of further studies. In the current study, we examined 30 different articles, and we chose them based on the quality of research investigations. From 3471 retrieved studies, a total of 15981 mandibular 2nd premolars were observed in 30 studies. The mean JBI score for studies assessing the structure of the root, as well as the root canal of the mandibular 2nd premolar, was 7.78 ± 0.81. We have found a pooled prevalence of 91.82% for Vertucci class I root canal morphology and 78.63% pooled prevalence of single-rooted mandibular second premolar. A total of 8677 mandibular 1st premolars were observed in 22 studies. The mean JBI score for studies assessing the structure and anatomy of the root, as well as root canal of mandibular 1st premolar, was 7. 95 ± 0.85. We have found a pooled prevalence of 74.34% for Vertucci class I root canal morphology and 85.20% pooled prevalence of single-rooted mandibular 1st premolar. Mandibular first and second premolars were mostly single-rooted teeth (89.5-100%). The most frequently seen RCC is a 1-1-2-/2 (type V-Vertucci's), followed by 1-1-2-/1 (type IV- Vertucci's; type III-Weine's), and finally RCC 2-2-2-1 (type IV-Vertucci's; type III-Weine's). Presently, the imaging of CBCT is the most used research approach for studying Mn2Ps' structural characteristics.

A CBCT Study to Evaluate the Root and Canal Morphology of Permanent Maxillary First Molars in Children.

For the correct diagnosis and endodontic therapy, a complete understanding of root canal morphology is required. One of the causes of endodontic failure is the inability to identify every canal in the root canal system; the second mesiobuccal canal (MB2) in the permanent maxillary first molar is the most commonly missed canal. Studies examining the root canal differences in pediatric Indian populations' permanent maxillary first molars are somewhat uncommon. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) will be used to assess the root and canal morphology of permanent maxillary first molars in the pediatric Indian population. In the age range of 7-13 years, 25 children's CBCT pictures (50 images) were gathered from the institutional database and private diagnostic facilities. SCANORA® software was used to reconstruct the CBCT pictures, and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for Windows was used to evaluate and analyze the data. The roots of each permanent maxillary first molar were distinct. And all of the palatal and distobuccal roots were found to have a single root canal (100%), whereas the mesiobuccal roots were found to have a single root canal in 80% of cases and a double root canal in 20% of cases. The Vertucci type II structure, followed by types IV and V, was the most prevalent in roots with two channels. Within the constraints of this investigation, we came to the conclusion that the permanent maxillary first molar root canal configuration varied among the patients from the pediatric Indian population. Krishnamurthy NH, Athira P, Umapathy T, et al. A CBCT Study to Evaluate the Root and Canal Morphology of Permanent Maxillary First Molars in Children. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2022;15(5):509-513.

Root Canal Configuration and Its Relationship with Endodontic Technical Errors and Periapical Status in Premolar Teeth of a Saudi Sub-Population: A Cross-Sectional Observational CBCT Study.

Endodontic technical errors are the foremost cause of treatment failure. A thorough understanding of root canal configuration (RCC) is essential to prevent these iatrogenic errors. This study used CBCT images to determine the association between root canal configuration, endodontic technical errors, and periapical status. CBCT images of 101 patients, including total of 212 obturated premolars (256 canals) were assessed. RCCs were classified according to the Vertucci system. The presence of endodontic errors and periapical lesions associated with each RCC was noted. Presence or absence of coronal restoration and its association with periapical radiolucency was recorded. The most frequent RCC was Type I (199 cases; 77.73%), followed by Type II (26 cases; 10.15%), Type IV (22 cases; 8.59%), Type V (4 cases; 1.56%), Type III (4 cases; 1.56%), and Type VI (1 case; 0.39%). Under-filling and non-homogeneous filling were the most common technical errors. Prevalence of periapical radiolucency was 81% in the presence of technical errors. The absence of coronal restoration caused apical lesions in 93% of cases. The frequency of endodontic technical errors increased as the root canal configurations became more complex. Periapical lesions occurred more often in teeth with endodontic errors and/or absent coronal restoration.

Single Root with C-shaped Canal Configuration in all the Posterior Teeth of a Patient: A Rare Case Report

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) allows three-dimensional evaluation of external root morphology and internal canal configuration of teeth thus allowing accurate diagnosis of rare complexities in the root canal system. This case study presented root canal re-treatment of a maxillary first molar #16 of a 29 years old female patient, wherein, thorough radiographic examination revealed single root morphology in all the teeth. CBCT analysis confirmed the root form and root canal configuration. Endodontic retreatment of the #16 was performed. The maxillary first molars had single fused roots with C-shaped canal configuration while maxillary second and third molars had O-shaped canals with single fused roots bilaterally. The mandibular first molars had two completely fused roots hence with C-shape canal configuration. While the mandibular second and third molars also had C-shaped canal configuration with single fused roots. The canal configuration of maxillary and mandibular molars was classified according to Martin’s and Fan’s classification respectively. This unique finding of single root with C-shaped canal configuration in all the posterior teeth of a single patient has not been reported in literature.