The anatomy of the lower-third-molar roots and its relation to the mandibular canal.

The root anatomy of the lower third molars and the distance from apex to the mandibular canal were examined in radiographs. Three different materials were examined; one medieval with erupted teeth, one modern with erupted teeth and one modern with impacted third molars. Uncomplicated root anatomy was recorded for 75% of the teeth in the medieval material and for 20% in the modern materials. A position of the root apex near the mandibular canal was more frequently observed in the modern material.