Root canal morphology of premolar teeth in the population of Maharashtra (Pune) compared to the other Indian population

Abstract

Aim: The current study aimed to investigate the root canal anatomy and their variations associated with premolar teeth in a defined population using tooth-clearing technique. Materials and Methods: Three hundred extracted premolar teeth (maxillary and mandibular) were collected from western Maharashtra (Pune). Access cavities were prepared and samples were placed in 2.5% sodium hypochlorite for 48 h. They were then decalcified with 5% nitric acid, dehydrated, and rendered clear by immersion in methyl salicylate, and methylene blue dye was injected. After staining, cleared teeth were evaluated for (i) number of roots and root canals, (ii) number of apical foramina, (iii) shape of root, (iv) type of root canal based on Vertucci's classification, (v) presence of lateral canals and their locations, and (vi) presence of root curvatures. Results: Vertucci Type I canal configuration represented the highest percentage (72.66%) followed by Type II (11.66%), Type III (6.33%), Type IV (4.66%), Type VI (2.66%), Type V (1.66%), Type VIII (0.66%), and C shaped (2.33%). Accessory canals were detected in 22.8% and intercanal connections were observed in 24.8% while 54% showed apical delta. Conclusion: Such knowledge is clinically useful for localization, negotiation, and subsequent management of premolar teeth in the studied population.

Keywords

• Decalcification and staining
• mandibular first premolar
• mandibular second premolar
• maxillary first premolar
• maxillary second premolar
• root canal anatomy
• Vertucci's classification