A Comparative Evaluation of the Root Canal Morphology of Primary Molars Using Cone Beam Computed Tomography and the Clearing Technique: An in vitro Study

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to compare the accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and the clearing technique in evaluating the root canal morphology of human primary molars, crucial for successful endodontic treatment.Materials and Methods: Eighty extracted primary molars (n=20) were divided into four groups: Group I= mandibular first, Group II= mandibular second , Group III= maxillary first, Group IV= maxillary second. CBCT images were captured prior to subjecting the teeth to the clearing technique. Root number, canal types according to Vertucci’s classification, and accessory canal prevalence were evaluated. Findings from both techniques were compared, and the agreement between the two was evaluated using the kappa coefficient and chi-square (χ2) test with SPSS 22.0 software for Windows.Results: Mandibular primary molars exhibited two roots 100%, maxillary primary molars typically had two roots, with a fusion rate of 65% between distobuccal and palatal roots. Root canal configurations varied, with Types IV and I being common in mesial canals, Type V and I in distal canals, and Type I in palatal canals. Significant agreement was found between CBCT and clearing technique in detecting root canals in the mesial, distal, and palatal canals (p = 0.001). Accessory canals were most frequently observed in mesial canals and furcation areas. Significant agreement was found between CBCT and clearing technique in detecting accessory canals in mesial, distal, palatal canals and furcation areas of primary molars (p = 0.001).Conclusions: The study emphasizes primary molar root canal variations, highlighting accessory canals. CBCT's comparable accuracy to the gold standard enhances diagnosis and treatment.

Keywords

• cone beam computed tomography
• in vitro techniques
• primary tooth
• root canal