Mandibular first and second molars with three mesial canals: a case series

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Dental Anatomy

Background:

• Successful root canal treatment relies on thorough cleaning, shaping, and filling of the root canal system.
• Understanding root canal morphology and tooth anatomy is crucial for dental practitioners.
• The presence and location of accessory canals can impact treatment outcomes.

Observation:

• This study investigated the occurrence and position of the middle mesial canal in mandibular first and second molars.
• The middle mesial canal was identified in 27 clinical cases (21 first molars, 6 second molars).
• This third canal was consistently located between the mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals.

Findings:

• The middle mesial canal was observed to join either the mesiobuccal or mesiolingual canal in all cases.
• No instances of three independent canals with separate apical foramina were found.
• The study documented a specific canal configuration involving a middle mesial canal in mandibular molars.

Implications:

• Practitioners must be aware of the potential presence of a middle mesial canal during endodontic procedures.
• Thorough exploration and treatment of all canals, including accessory ones, are essential for effective root canal therapy.
• Knowledge of this anatomical variation can improve treatment success rates and prevent complications.