Microcomputed tomographic evaluation of mandibular molars with single distal canals

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Endodontics
• Dental Anatomy

Background:

• Understanding the root canal morphology of mandibular molars is crucial for successful endodontic treatment.
• Variations in canal configuration can significantly impact treatment outcomes and predictability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of conjoined mesial canals in mandibular first and second molars possessing a single distal canal.
• To analyze the morphological characteristics of these conjoined canals using microcomputed tomography.

Main Methods:

• Microcomputed tomography (µCT) was employed to scan 206 extracted mandibular molars (114 first molars, 114 second molars) with mature apices.
• Specimens were decoronated, and teeth with C-shaped canals were excluded. Three-dimensional analysis was performed.

Main Results:

• A significant proportion (62.6%) of the included teeth exhibited conjoined mesial canals with a single exit.
• Conjoined mesial canals were more frequent in second molars (55.0%) than in first molars (45.0%).
• The mean inter-orifice distance for conjoined mesial canals was less than 3.00 mm.

Conclusions:

• The high frequency of conjoined mesial canals in mandibular molars with a single distal canal necessitates consideration.
• Clinicians should be aware of this morphological variation to potentially adapt endodontic access and instrumentation techniques.
• This study provides valuable data for endodontic treatment planning in specific mandibular molar subtypes.