Evaluation of the Root and Canal Morphology of Maxillary and Mandibular Premolars in an Emirati Sub-Population

Abstract

Introduction and aims

Numerous studies have reported that maxillary and mandibular premolars have a complex internal canal configuration, which can vary according to the race and geographic origin. Therefore, a thorough knowledge and understanding of the root and canal morphology is crucial to ensure successful outcome of root canal treatment. This retrospective study aims to describe the root and canal morphology of the maxillary and mandibular first and second premolars in the Emirati subpopulation using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 360 CBCT scans that were randomly selected and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The scans were reviewed by two evaluators who recorded the number and shape of roots and categorized the canal morphology based on the Vertucci classification (VC). The data were analyzed statistically using SPSS software.

Results

A total of 1795 premolars were examined. Most maxillary first premolars had one root (52.1%), while only 0.9% had three roots. Type I VC was the most common canal configuration (53.8%). The majority of maxillary second premolars had one root (91%). Type I VC was the most common canal configuration (47.4%), followed by type III (32.4%). Most of the mandibular first and second premolars had one root (77.3% and 97%, respectively), and Type I VC was the most common canal configuration (70.4% and 94.9%, respectively). C-shaped canals were most observed in the mandibular first premolars, with a prevalence of 22.7%.

Conclusion

Our results showed great variations in the canal configuration. In addition, C-shaped canals in mandibular first premolar is relatively high (22.7%).

Clinical relevance

Premolars in Emirati population exhibit complex anatomy. Therefore, clinicians might consider advanced diagnostic and treatment techniques when treating premolars in this population.