The prevalence of furcation foramina in primary molars

Accessory canals in the furcation region of primary molars provide pulpal-periodontal communications which have important clinical implications. This study of 75 extracted primary molars using dye penetration under vacuum suction showed that 42.7% have foramina located within the furcation region. There were no significant differences in the prevalence between the first and second primary molars. However, in the second primary molar series most of these foramina were located on the root surfaces within the furcation region, rather than in the immediate area of root division. The high prevalence of accessory canals in the furcation region of primary teeth indicates the need for greater clinical consideration during endodontic and periodontal management.