Evaluation of the root and canal morphology of mandibular permanent molars in a south-eastern Turkish population using cone-beam computed tomography

• Published in: European journal of dentistry 2014-04, Vol.8 (2), p.154-159
• Main Authors: Nur, Bilge Gulsum, Ok, Evren, Altunsoy, Mustafa, Aglarci, Osman Sami, Colak, Mehmet, Gungor, Enes
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: CT imaging; Methods; Molars; Original; Original Article; Physiological aspects; Root canal therapy
• ISSN: 1305-7456; 1305-7464
• DOI: 10.4103/1305-7456.130584

ABSTRACT Objective: The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the root and canal morphology of the mandibular first and second permanent molars in a Turkish population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: CBCT images of mandibular first ( n = 966) and second molar ( n = 1165) teeth from 850 Turkish patients were evaluated. The root canal configurations were classified according to the method of Vertucci. The data were analyzed by Pearson's Chi-square test. Results: The majority of mandibular molars were two rooted with three canals; however, three roots were identified in 0.05% of the first molars and 0.01% of the second molars, and 100% of the additional root canals were of type I configuration. Mesial roots had more complex canal systems with more than one canal, whereas most distal roots had a type I configuration. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that CBCT scanning provides supplemental information about the root canal configurations of mandibular molars in a Turkish population. This study may help clinicians in the root canal treatment of mandibular molars.