Canal number and configuration are predictors of external root morphology

Abstract

Within tooth roots canals can vary in shape and configuration, and it is not uncommon for a single root to contain multiple canals. Externally, root morphology also varies, though the range of variation, and its relation to canals remains little explored. This investigation of modern human post-canine teeth uses data from computerized tomography scans of a global sample of 945 modern humans to identify the most frequent phenotypes of root and canal morphologies, and investigate how canal number, shape, and configuration relate to external root morphology. Results (1) include descriptions and definitions of root and canal morphologies, counts, and configurations; (2) indicate that certain canal counts, morphologies, and configurations can predict external morphologies; and (3) that this pattern varies in individual teeth and roots in the maxilla and mandible.