Types and dimensions of root trunk correlating with diagnosis of molar furcation involvements

The objective of the present study was to investigate the possible correlation of dimension, location, prevalence, and types of root trunk with molar furcation involvement (FI). The samples used in the study include 166 maxillary molars (70 1st and 96 2nd molars) and 200 mandibular molars (103 1st and 97 2nd molars). The dimensions of the root trunks and root lengths were measured with an electric caliper and their means and standard deviations calculated. The types of root trunks were identified by the ratio of root trunk dimension to root length and classified as types A, B, and C. The results may be summarized as follows. (1) Short-root trunks were more commonly found buccally, whereas long-root trunks were more commonly found mesially, in both maxillary molars. (2) Short-root trunks were most commonly found buccally, whereas long-root trunks were more commonly found lingually in both mandibular molars. (3) Long-root trunks were more commonly found on the 2nd molars than on the 1st molars. (4) Long-root trunks were associated with short root length. (5) There is a strong correlation between vertical length and type of root trunk and FI. The findings of the study indicated that an awareness of root trunk type together with horizontal and vertical attachment levels in molar FI may be helpful in the prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment of molar FI.