A cone-beam computed tomography - based survey of the root canal morphology of maxillary first premolars

Abstract

Introduction: The maxillary first premolar (MFP) is characterized by a highly diverse root canal system. Variations in root canal morphology can complicate endodontic treatment. Objective: To evaluate the root canal morphology and curvature of MFP using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: An in vitro experimental study was conducted on 63 extracted MFP. The samples were scanned using CBCT to analyze the canal morphology and canal curvature on CBCT images. Results: In the group of MFP with one root, 6 out of 8 Vertucci root canal morphology types were observed (types I, II, III, IV, V, and VII), with proportions of 13.2%, 21%, 36.8%, 13.2%, 13.2%, and 2.6%, respectively. No type VI or VIII root canals were recorded. In the group of MFP with two roots, only 2 out of 8 Vertucci types were observed (types I and V), with proportions of 96% and 4%, respectively. No type II, III, IV, VI, VII, or VIII root canals were recorded. In the buccolingual direction, most canals were moderately curved (52.1%); followed by straight canals (29.3%); and severely curved canals (18.6%). The mean canal curvature was 15.63° ± 10.95°. In the mesiodistal direction, most of the canals were also moderately curved (55.3%); followed by straight canals (41.4%); and severely curved canals (3.3%). The mean canal curvature was 9.08° ± 7.01°. Conclusion: The morphology and curvature of the root canals in maxillary first premolars are highly variable, increasing the complexity of endodontic treatment. CBCT plays an important role in identifying canal morphology and curvature.