Multinational cross-sectional study and meta-analysis on radicular grooves, C-shaped canals, and taurodontism in mandibular first premolars across 20 countries.

The success of root canal therapy is fully predicated upon a complete understanding of root and canal morphology and all the anatomical variations that can complicate the endodontic treatment. Of these morphological variations, taurodontism, RGs, and C-shaped canals are of note due to their implications on diagnosis, treatment planning, and endodontic success. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and regional variations of C-shaped canals, RGs, and taurodontism across 20 countries using CBCT imaging and meta-analytic methods. A multicenter, cross-sectional study analyzed CBCT datasets from 6,000 participants (12,000 teeth) distributed equally across 20 countries. Standardized evaluation arrangements were utilized to identify RGs (RG), taurodontism, and C-shaped canals with their prevalence stratified by region, gender, and age. Statistical analyses cover subgroup comparisons, correlation studies, and sensitivity analysis using Cramer's V. RGs had a pooled global prevalence of 20%, with high-rised rates in Africa. C-shaped canals reported a 10% global prevalence, mainly in Asia, On the Other hand taurodontism was lowest prevalent at 7%, with markable regional variability. Prominent bilateral symmetry was noticed for all features, and taurodontism showed the highest rate (98.33%). Important correlations existed among C-shaped canals, grooves, and taurodontism showing shared developmental pathways. The current study points out the significant prevalence, including anatomical variations of RGs, taurodontism, and C-shaped canals in mandibular 1st premolars, with substantial demographic and regional differences. The findings highlight the importance of perception of these features' morphological interrelationships along with bilateral symmetry to increase diagnostic accuracy, clinical outcomes, and treatment planning.