Cone-beam computed tomography study of root number and root canal configuration of premolars in Serbian population

Introduction. The aim of this study was to establish the number of roots and present the root canal configuration in the maxillary and mandibular premolar teeth, and evaluate the relations among these characteristics with gender and teeth position in the Serbian population using cone-beam computed tomography. Material and Methods. Cone-beam computed tomography images of 570 teeth of 150 patients were evaluated. Teeth were classified into the following groups: maxillary first premolars, maxillary second premolars, mandibular first premolars and mandibular second premolars, and the number of roots and root canals per tooth, whereas root canal configurations were examined along with the tooth position and patients' gender. The root canal configuration was classified using Vertucci's classification. Statistical significance was obtained using Chi square test. Results. In maxillary first premolars, two roots (53.5%) and two root canals (84.5%) were the most prevalent, as well as type IV configuration (58.9%). In maxillary second premolars, most teeth had one root (88.1%) and one root canal (59.6%). In regard to gender, complex configurations with multiple canals were more prevalent in males. Higher incidence of type IV configuration in maxillary first premolars was present on the right side of the jaw (70.2%). Most mandibular first premolars had one root (98.5%). In mandibular second premolar, all teeth had one root and most had type I configuration (96.2%). Males showed higher incidence of two canals in mandibular first premolars. Conclusion. Cone-beam computed tomography is a useful tool for obtaining valuable information on root canal morphology of premolar teeth. Patient's gender should be considered when performing the preoperative assessment of endodontic treatment.