Objective: A new coding system for classifying the roots, main and accessory canals as well as developmental anomalies has been introduced recently. This paper discusses the advantages and potential application of the new system in research and clinical practice. Methods: A comprehensive analysis was undertaken on the most common, existing classification for root canal morphology. The advantages and potential applications of a new system for classifying roots and canal systems in research and clinical practice are discussed.
Results:The analysis demonstrates deficiencies of the existing classification including lack of information on the number of roots, pulp chamber outline, lack of clarity in multi-rooted teeth, inability to define complex root canal configurations. The new coding system addresses the root and canal morphology in an accurate and systematic manner to provide detailed information of the tooth, root and canal anatomical features. Conclusion: With current advances in endodontic research and practice and the increasing body of knowledge on root and canal morphology, the deficiencies of the existing system used for classifying root canal morphology have become more apparent. The new system for classifying root, main and accessory canal morphology as well as teeth with anomalies has the potential to be used in research, clinical practice and education to accurately reflect the real anatomy of a tooth. Keywords: Anatomy, canal configuration, classification, morphology, root, root canal
INTRODUCTIONEffective root canal treatment requires thorough knowledge of root and canal morphology (1). Tooth anatomy is complex and several systems are available for classifying the variations that occur (2-4). The system proposed by Vertucci et al. (3) together with supplemental configuration types (5-8) has been the most commonly used classification.With an increasing range of anatomical complexities being reported and the deficiencies of the existing systems becoming more apparent, new systems for classifying root, root canal and accessory canal morphology have been proposed, which provide detailed information on tooth notation, number of roots, root canal configuration and accessory canal morphology including teeth with anomalies (9-11). The purpose of this paper is to discuss the advantages and potential applications of these new systems in research and clinical practice.
Shortcomings of the present system to categorise canal anatomy and advantages of the new systemDefining the number of roots Maxillary premolars: Vertucci (12) categorized the root canal systems of human teeth into eight types (Figure 1). However, for maxillary premolars, whether the canals were within one,
ABSTRACT
HIGHLIGHTS• With current advances in endodontics and increasing body of knowledge, the deficiencies of the existing system used for classifying root canal morphology have become more apparent.• The new coding system provides detailed information on the tooth, root, main and accessory canal morphology as well as teeth with anomalies.•...