[Preliminary study on root canal morphology of maxillary second molars]

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Anatomy
• Radiology

Background:

• Maxillary second molars possess intricate root and canal systems.
• Accurate assessment of root canal morphology is crucial for successful endodontic treatment.
• Variations in root canal anatomy can complicate endodontic procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the root canal morphology and anatomy of maxillary second molars.
• To compare the efficacy of transparent tooth technique and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in identifying root canal configurations.
• To explore the consistency between these two methods.

Main Methods:

• Fifty extracted maxillary second molars were analyzed.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were performed and analyzed.
• Transparent tooth technique was applied for canal staining and visualization.
• Root canal configurations were classified using Vertucci's classification.

Main Results:

• Type I configuration was most prevalent in the distobuccal and palatal roots.
• A novel configuration (3-2-2) was observed, not previously included in Vertucci's classification.
• The mesiobuccal root displayed significant anatomical complexity, with a 41.3% prevalence of a second canal (MB2).
• Both techniques demonstrated consistent findings in identifying canal morphology and configurations.

Conclusions:

• Maxillary second molars present complex root and canal morphology, especially the mesiobuccal root.
• CBCT serves as a reliable alternative to the transparent tooth technique for clinical assessment.
• 3D reconstruction from CBCT aids in visualizing complex root canal anatomy.