The nature of curvature of palatal canals in maxillary molar teeth

Abstract

Summary. The palatal roots of 100 maxillary first permanent molar teeth and 100 maxillary second molar teeth were examined for degree and nature of curvature in a bucco‐palatal direction. Eighty‐five per cent of palatal canals of maxillary permanent first and second molar teeth were curved more than 10. Attention is drawn to the need to use instrumentation techniques which are directed to the maintenance of this curvature, and care should also be taken during preparation of post holes so that the curvature of these root canals is not ignored.

Mechanical preparation of root canals: shaping goals, techniques and means

“…It measures the degree of the curvature in order to categorize root canals as straight (51 curvature or less), moderately or severely curved (4201). More advanced techniques (115)(116)(117)(118)(119) aim to determine degree and radius as well as length and location of the curve(s), since all of these factors may influence the treatment/preparation outcome.…”

A Comparison between In Vivo Radiographic Working Length Determination and Measurement after Extraction

“…Bone and Moule found that in 85% of first molars and in 71% of second molars, the palatal canal curves toward the buccal (16). The results of a study by Kim-Park et al suggested that because of a frequent buccal curvature in the palatal roots of maxillary molars, the ability of a clinician to accurately determine working length base solely on radiographic interpretation may be impaired.…”

Endodontic Considerations for the Restoration of Endodontically Treated Teeth

“…Maxillary premolars with two roots also present an area of thin dentin on the furcal aspect of the buccal root (Lammertyn et al 2009 ), making the palatal root the more ideal location for a post. Similarly, when a post is necessary in a maxillary molar, it is suggested that it be placed in the palatal root due to greater bulk of tooth structure in that root (Schwartz and Robbins 2004 ); however, the operator must also take into consideration the apical curvature of the palatal root (Bone and Moule 1986 ). Rigid post drills and posts will not follow root curvatures, so there is risk of perforating at the inner aspect of the curvature if the post drill used beyond the point of curvature.…”