Evaluation of Maxillary Molar Root Canal Morphology in a Tertiary Care Setting in Lahore, Pakistan

Root Canal Morphology of Maxillary Molars

Abstract

Background: Successful endodontic procedures rely on a comprehensive understanding of tooth anatomy and meticulous canal preparation, cleaning, and filling. Failures can occur due to missed canals and complex canal morphology despite the general success of these procedures. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the root and canal morphology on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of maxillary molars among the population of Lahore. Study Design: Retrospective cross-sectional study. Settings: Rashid Latif Khan University, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: Six months from June 2022 to January 2023. Methods: Root number, canal number, and configurations were analyzed in 206 CBCT images of maxillary molars from 55 patients. Results: The majority of maxillary first molars had three roots and four canals (66.7%), whereas the second molars commonly had three roots and three canals (72.5%). The maxillary third molars showed variable root forms. Type I and IV patterns were prevalent in the mesiobuccal (MB) roots of the second and first molars, respectively. Palatal roots mostly showed Type I configuration, though the first molars displayed more variation. The occurrence of C-shaped canals was low (1.8%). These findings align with previous studies, confirming the commonality of three roots in maxillary molars. Conclusion: CBCT imaging provides a detailed analysis of endodontic morphology, improving endodontic treatment outcomes by offering a comprehensive understanding of complex anatomy, in cases with variations like C- configured canals.