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Maxillary first molar with seven root canals diagnosed with cone-beam computed tomography scanning
Anil Munavalli1, Sharnappa Kambale, Siddhesh Bandekar
1Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Vasantdada Patil Dental College, Sangli, Maharashtra, India.
Summary
This case report details nonsurgical endodontic treatment for a maxillary molar with complex root canal anatomy. Advanced imaging techniques like cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) revealed an unusual number of canals, aiding successful treatment.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Anatomy
- Radiology
Background:
- Nonsurgical endodontic therapy requires precise understanding of root canal morphology.
- Complex root canal systems present significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
- Maxillary molars can exhibit intricate internal anatomy requiring advanced diagnostic tools.
Observation:
- A right maxillary first molar presented with an unusual three-root, seven-canal configuration.
- Diagnosis was achieved using a dental operating microscope (DOM) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).
- CBCT axial images revealed specific canal patterns: Vertucci type II in palatal and distobuccal roots, and Sert and Bayirli type XVIII in the mesiobuccal root.
Findings:
- Detailed visualization of complex root canal anatomy was facilitated by the combined use of DOM and CBCT.
- The unusual morphology included multiple canals within each of the three roots.
- Accurate identification of all canal pathways was crucial for effective treatment.
Implications:
- The integration of DOM and CBCT enhances the understanding of complex endodontic cases.
- Improved diagnostic capabilities lead to more efficient cleaning, shaping, and obturation of root canal systems.
- This approach can improve treatment outcomes for challenging endodontic anatomies.
