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 depend on a detailed understanding of tooth anatomy and meticulous canal preparation, cleaning, and filling. Despite generally high success rates for root canal treatment (RCT), failures can occur due to missed canals and complex canal morphology.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the root and canal morphology of maxillary molars in a Pakistani population using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Study Design: Retrospective cross-sectional study

Settings: Rashid Latif Dental College/ Rashid Latif Medical Complex

Duration: Six months from June 2022 to January 2023

Materials and Methods:

This study included 206 CBCT images of maxillary molars from 55 patients. The images were analyzed for root number, canal number, and configurations.

Results:

Maxillary first molars typically had three roots and four canals (66.7%), while second molars had three roots and three canals (72.5%).  Maxillary third molars exhibited variable root forms. Type I and IV configurations were common in the mesiobuccal (MB) roots of second and first molars, respectively. Palatal roots mostly showed Type I configuration, though the first molars displayed more variation. The incidence of C-shaped canals was low (1.8%). These findings are consistent with previous studies from various populations, confirming the prevalence of three roots in maxillary molars.

Conclusion:

CBCT imaging's detailed analysis of root canal morphology can improve RCT outcomes by providing a comprehensive understanding of complex anatomy, particularly in cases with variations like C-shaped canals in Pakistani population.