Conventional and surgical endodontic treatment of a maxillary first molar with unusual anatomy--a case report

To describe conventional and surgical endodontic treatment of a maxillary left first molar with two canals on the distobuccal root and to discuss the treatment outcome.

According to the literature, the presence of a second canal on the distobuccal root of a maxillary first molar is rare. This anatomical anomaly might lead to an unfavourable outcome if clinicians fail to identify and treat it properly. The following case report describes conventional and surgical endodontic treatment of a maxillary left first molar with two canals on the distobuccal root. Key learning points • Anatomical variations of the root canal system are a challenge for clinicians during root canal retreatment. • The principles and techniques of endodontic microsurgery are of utmost importance in clinical practice, and clinicians should be aware of them.