Root surface measurements of mandibular molars using stereophotogrammetry.

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Oral Surgery
• Dental Anatomy

Background:

• Hemisection is a dental surgical procedure involving the separation of a multi-rooted tooth.
• Accurate assessment of root anatomy is vital for successful hemisection outcomes.
• Previous studies have not comprehensively quantified the root surface area differences between mesial and distal roots of mandibular first molars.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively compare the root surface areas of the mesial and distal roots of mandibular first molars.
• To provide anatomical data relevant to the planning and execution of hemisection procedures.

Main Methods:

• Ten human mandibular first molars were selected for the study.
• Each tooth underwent hemisection.
• Root surface area was measured using stereophotogrammetry and computer analysis.

Main Results:

• The mesial root consistently exhibited a greater surface area compared to the distal root in all evaluated teeth.
• This difference in surface area between the mesial and distal roots was found to be statistically significant.

Conclusions:

• The mesial root of the mandibular first molar possesses a significantly larger surface area than its distal counterpart.
• This anatomical characteristic must be considered during the surgical planning of hemisection to optimize treatment outcomes.