Cone Beam Computed Tomography Evaluation of Root Canal Anatomy in Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Introduction: Endodontic treatment requires knowledge of root canal morphology and its commonly occurring variation. The utility and relevance of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to the practice of endodontics is reported with increasing frequency in the field of endodontics for successful procedures. Therefore, the present study is undertaken to assess the variation in number and morphology of the root canals of primary molars. Materials and methods: Extracted primary molars with at least two-thirds of intact root, and 7 to 12 mm length were cleaned in water and stored in 0.5% sodium hypochlorite for 1 week. Thereafter, the anatomy of the root canals of these primary molars was assessed through CBCT. Results: In the present study, the majority of canals were ribbon shaped. Accessory canals were few and maximum number was found to be present in mesiobuccal root of maxillary first molar and the least in mesiobuccal root of mandibular second molar. Conclusion: The CBCT proved to be as accurate as the gold standard in studying the presence of accessory canals with clinical applicability. This study highlights the usefulness of CBCT imaging for accurate diagnosis of the unusual canal morphology.