OBJECTIVES

In the present study, confluent canals in the mandibular first molar's mesial root were investigated in an Italian population by means of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 200 molars, selected from the CBCT examinations of 130 patients who required this type of X-ray study as part of their dental treatment, were examined. The evaluated parameters were number of canals, root canal system configuration, presence of apical confluences, distance between confluences and apical foramina, which canal had a higher degree of curvature, and symmetry between left and right elements in the same individual.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Percentages of the cases were reported.

RESULTS

All the examined roots presented two canals. In 59% of cases, a Vertucci Type IV canal configuration was observed, while in 41% of cases, a Type II configuration was observed. Apical confluences were present in 41% of cases. The average distance between confluences and apical foramina was 2.85 mm. When confluences were present, the mesiobuccal canal showed a higher degree of curvature in 78% of cases. Symmetry in Vertucci configuration was seen in 88% of cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Apical confluences in the mesial roots of mandibular molar can be present in a significantly high number of cases, and their recognition is essential to prevent the iatrogenic errors during canal instrumentation.