Morphology of Root and C-Shape Canal in Prehispanic and Modern Maya Groups from Northern Yucatan

Abstract

One-rooted mandibular second molars are labelled “C-molar” because of the root’s morphology. The frequency of C-molars is strongly associated with ethnic origin, being most common in North-East Asians. The present study analyzed the frequency of one-rooted molars and associated pulpal chamber in 48 Prehispanic Mayans and in 142 modern subjects studied at the School of Endodontics, UADY. The frequency of one-rooted molars in the Prehispanic sample is 35%, with 32% of these having C-canals. Similarly, 42 of 142 (30%) modern teeth exhibit a C-canal. The similarity between ancient and modern samples suggests that genetic admixture since the European conquest has not affected trait expression, and it implies that the Maya express the Sinodontic pattern of dental morphology. Endodontically, the significant correlation between C-molar and C-canal is an advantage for recognizing the canal’s anatomy if treatment is indicated.