Shabdika Baghel, Sanket Hans Pandey, Pallav Patni, Pradeep Jain, Swadhin Raghuwanshi, Katya Pandey

ABSTRACT

Aim - The aim of this study was to identify morphological peculiarities of roots and analyze the root canal configuration in mandibular first and second molars using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging in a Central Indian population. Method - A total of 200 mandibular first and 200 mandibular second molars were examined by CBCT imaging. Only molars with healthy and fully matured apices were included in this study. Details regarding the number of roots, number of canals, and root canal configuration were recorded in Microsoft Excel 2013 and subjected to statistical analysis using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Fisher’s exact test was used, and P-values less than 0.05 were considered significant. Result - Among the mandibular first molars, 30% had 3 canals, 56% had 4 canals, and 14% had 5 canals. Middle mesial canals were present in 12% of mandibular first molars, while radix entomolaris was seen in 8%. 14% of mandibular second molars had 1 canal, 6% had 2 canals, 62% had 3 canals, and 18% had 4 canals. C-shaped anatomy was seen in 18% of mandibular second molars. Conclusion - CBCT is a useful tool in assessing root canal morphology. Preoperative information on the root canal anatomy can help reduce the chances of missed canals and provide a better outcome for the patient.