Three-Dimensional Evaluation of Accessory Canals in Primary Maxillary Molars Using Micro-CT

The objective of the present study was to characterize the internal anatomy of primary maxillary molars by evaluating the presence and distribution of accessory canals using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Seventeen primary maxillary molars from donors aged 2 to 8 years were scanned using micro-CT and reconstructed using NRecon software. Only teeth with at least two-thirds of the root structure preserved were included. Image analysis was performed with ImageJ, supplemented by CTan and CTvol software. Accessory canals were identified and counted at each root and categorized by root third. Statistical analyses, including Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests, were applied (p<0.05). A total of 47 roots were analyzed, with 68.08% exhibiting at least one accessory canal, totaling 96 canals. The apical third showed a higher number of accessory canals compared to cervical (p=0.01), with a mean of 0.87±1.05, accounting for 42.71% of all accessory canals identified. The middle third had a mean of 0.80±1.42, representing 39.58% of the total, while the cervical third exhibited the lowest mean (0.36±0.84), corresponding to 17.71% of the overall canals. Notably, 57.44% of the apical thirds had at least one accessory canal. Also, considering the presence of at least one accessory canal, the apical third also presented a higher prevalence (p<0.01). Accessory canals are highly prevalent in the apical third, highlighting the complexity of their internal anatomy and the importance of thorough endodontic management.