Endodontic management of a C-shaped maxillary first molar with three independent buccal root canals by using cone-beam computed tomography

Abstract

The aim of this study was to present a method for endodontic management of a maxillary first molar with unusual C-shaped morphology of the buccal root verified by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images. This rare anatomical variation was confirmed using CBCT, and nonsurgical endodontic treatment was performed by meticulous evaluation of the pulpal floor. Posttreatment image revealed 3 independent canals in the buccal root obturated efficiently to the accepted lengths in all 3 canals. Our study describes a unique C-shaped variation of the root canal system in a maxillary first molar, involving the 3 buccal canals. In addition, our study highlights the usefulness of CBCT imaging for accurate diagnosis and management of this unusual canal morphology.

C-shaped root canals of mandibular second molars in a Korean population: a CBCT analysis

“…Since the first report by Cooke and Cox in 1979 [ 1 ], many investigators have evaluated the root canal anatomy of mandibular second molars. The prevalence of C-shaped canals has been reported to vary depending on the population and ethnic group [ 1 4 7 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 ]. The mandibular second molars in Asian populations have shown a high prevalence of C-shaped canals in many studies [ 6 18 20 25 30 ].…”

A C-Shaped Canal in a Maxillary Second Molar: Prexion 3D Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Analysis

“…dobivanje visoko detaljiziranih informacija o morfologiji i za točnu topografiju sustava korijenskog kanala, iako treba imati na umu da se ta tehnologija upotrebljava samo ako dodatni nalazi opravdavaju izlaganje zračenju (13,14).…”

“…Cone-beam computed tomography has emerged as a valuable tool for acquiring highly detailed information on morphology and exact topography of the root canal system, although it should be kept in mind that this technique should only be utilized when it is associated with additional benefits that justify the exposure dose (13,14). We must highlight the importance of the axial slices for defining the canal configuration as C-shaped because, although conventional radiograph is commonly used, it does not provide sufficient information on more complex cases that challenge the inherent two-dimensionality of these systems (8,11).…”

Use of cone-beam computed tomography and three-dimensional modeling for assessment of anomalous pulp canal configuration: a case report

“…15 An operating microscope enhances visualization of canal orifices. 16 Nevertheless, the lower two-thirds of the pulp canal is difficult to assess from the morphology of the cervical third in mandibular premolars with anomalous pulp canal configuration. 14 Yu et al reported a high probability of pulp canal variations in the middle or apical third of mandibular premolar roots and suggested that most mandibular premolars have an oval cross-sectional morphology in the cervical third.…”

“… 17 CBCT can provide valuable information for assessing such complex morphology. 16 , 18 However, its use in endodontics has been limited to selected cases in which intraoral radiographs were unsatisfactory for treatment planning. 19 , 20 In the present study, CBCT revealed a fourth canal and 3D modeling of the tooth anatomy provided information about both the internal and the external morphology of the root, enabling preoperative evaluation and facilitating treatment.…”