Topography of Primary Molar Pulp Chamber Floor: A Scanning Electron Microscopy and Micro-Computed Tomography Analysis

A Proposal to Develop a New Classification for Pulp Chamber Anatomy

“…These anatomical features require careful attention during caries excavation and other restorative procedures to prevent pulp exposure ( 53 ), considering the fact that the size of the pulp chamber affects the thickness of the external tooth structure, especially in first molars and the mesio-buccal cusp of maxillary second molars ( 53 ). This is in addition to access cavity preparations during root canal treatment of primary molars, which also requires special consideration, to prevent furcal perforations ( 54 , 55 ).…”

The Study and Relevance of Pulp Chamber Anatomy in Endodontics – A Comprehensive Review

“…The furcation area of primary molars is of special significance because of its close anatomical relationship with the follicle of the permanent successor, and thus, it is one of the main pathways for the development of pathological bone changes through chamber canals ( 40 , 41 ). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been used to study the furcation in primary molars ( 40 , 42 – 45 ), and permanent molars ( 43 , 46 – 48 ). Nonetheless, since SEM provides only topographic information of the pulp chamber floor (in addition to 2D measurements such as diameter of the chamber canal orifice), it cannot identify the type of chamber canals (either patent, blind or loop) ( 45 ).…”

“…Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been used to study the furcation in primary molars ( 40 , 42 – 45 ), and permanent molars ( 43 , 46 – 48 ). Nonetheless, since SEM provides only topographic information of the pulp chamber floor (in addition to 2D measurements such as diameter of the chamber canal orifice), it cannot identify the type of chamber canals (either patent, blind or loop) ( 45 ).…”

“…Two micro-CT studies investigated the pulp chamber anatomy in primary molars and reported a wide range of variations in the morphological measurements, size of the chamber in relation to the crown, location and number of the pulp horns as well as the pulp chamber floor. These anatomical features require careful attention to prevent procedural errors such as furcal perforations ( 45 , 82 ).…”