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This study investigated root number and canal configurations, including morphological variations, of mandibular first molars in a subpopulation of South Africans. Methods: Two calibrated examiners retrospectively evaluated 371 mandibular first molars by using high-resolution cone-beam CT images and the Vertucci classification system with the additions of Sert and Bayirli. Internal and external configurations were recorded, and correlations of sex and age with root number and canal configuration were determined with the chi-square and Fisher exact tests (P < 0.05). Results: Among mandibular first molars, 0.3% were single-rooted, 98.7% were two-rooted, and 1% were three-rooted. The most frequent configuration was Vertucci Type IV in mesial roots and Vertucci Type I in distal roots. Middle mesial canals were found in 20% and middle-distal canals in 7% of samples. The prevalence of third canals increased in mesial and distal roots as age increased (P > 0.05). Canal configuration and sex were not correlated (P > 0.05). Conclusion:Mandibular first molars exhibited diverse anatomic characteristics in this subpopulation. Clinicians should be aware of the possibility of additional canals in mandibular first molars, as treatment outcomes may be worse if canals are left untreated.

Dentin dysplasia (DD) Type I is a developmental condition affecting dentin, inherited in an autosomal‐dominant pattern or occurring due to a new mutation. Whilst the crowns of DD Type I affected teeth appear clinically normal, the roots are blunt and shortened. Pulp necrosis and periapical pathoses may be seen in the absence of obvious causes. Pulp stones and calcifications are frequently encountered. Endodontic management of DD may be challenging. A case of DD Type I, sub‐classification d, in which spontaneous irreversible pulpitis developed on three mandibular incisors is documented. The case was managed by conventional endodontic treatment. Knowledge of this uncommon dental condition may assist dentists to adequately diagnose and manage these cases. Extraction should not be considered the first‐line treatment option when sufficient root length is available to attempt endodontic treatment. Referral for medical evaluation is recommended to rule out systemic diseases which may mimic this condition.

INTRODUCTION: In many countries, endodontic files continue to be sterilised and reused in multiple clinical cases as the alternative of single-use of these instruments is avoided due to financial reasons. METHODS: A survey was performed including South African general dental practitioners and specialist prosthodontists to determine the current endodontic file sterilisation methods in place and the adoption rate of single-use protocols of both hand and engine-driven instruments. RESULTS: The majority of respondents (76.6%, n=141/184) indicated autoclaving endodontic files prior to reuse. Almost a quarter of the respondents (23.4%, (n=43/184) used only cold sterilisation. Some respondents (2,8%, n=5/181) indicated not sterilising their files at all. A low number of respondents had adopted the single-use of endodontic hand files (10.9%, n=20/184). Engine-driven files were used only once and discarded by 18.5% (n=34/184) of respondents. CONCLUSION: It appears that, at times, acceptable infection prevention and control practices regarding the sterilisation these instruments are not necessarily being adhered to. The adoption of single-use protocols of endodontic files in a South African dental setting is higher than previously reported. Keywords: Endodontic files, single-use, sterilisation, survey.

Background:The number of child abuse cases is increasing worldwide; therefore, it is important to educate individuals having contact with children about it. This includes dentists who play a pivotal role in detecting and reporting child abuse. Aim: To identify and compare the final-year dental student's knowledge, attitudes, and practice in relation to child abuse. Design: A 38-item and four-part online questionnaire was distributed to students of 11 dental schools in 10 countries. SPSS and GraphPad Prism were used for data analysis. The levels of statistical significance were determined using a chi-square test. P ≤ .05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: A total of 660 students completed the survey. Fifty-six percent of the students received formal training on child abuse, and 86% wanted additional training.The knowledge of child abuse was significantly higher in Australia, the United States, and Jordan compared with other countries. Internet (60.3%) was commonly used as an information source for child abuse. Conclusions:The study showed that dental students lack knowledge and experience in recognizing and reporting child abuse. Most respondents indicated a desire for additional training; therefore, dental schools should review what they are currently teaching and make changes as appropriate.