A micro-computed tomography study of the relationship between radicular grooves and root canal morphology in mandibular first premolars

Clin Oral Investig. 2015 Mar;19(2):329-34. doi: 10.1007/s00784-014-1242-1. Epub 2014 Apr 16.

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to explore the correlation between radicular grooves and root canal types by quantitatively detecting the radicular groove of mandibular first premolars using micro-computed tomography.

Materials and methods: A total of 127 mandibular first premolars were scanned by micro-computed tomography, and 52 teeth with radicular grooves were identified. Details of root canal type and groove length, depth, and location were analyzed from three-dimensional images.

Results: A total of 40.9 % (52/127) of teeth had radicular grooves. Most of the grooves (69.5 %) were located on the mesial surface of the root. The prevalence of radicular grooves in single canals (17.4 %; 15/86) was lower than that in multiple and complex canals (90.2 %; 37/41); this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The mean length and depth of radicular groove in type V (7.7 ± 2.16 and 0.87 ± 0.39 mm, respectively) and other types of canals (6.91 ± 2.67 and 0.63 ± 0.27 mm, respectively) were significantly longer and deeper than type I canals (6.06 ± 2.12 and 0.43 ± 0.14 mm, respectively).

Conclusions: Multiple and complex canals had a higher incidence of radicular grooves and more complicated root morphology than single and simple canals. Therefore, the anatomy of radicular grooves may influence root canal morphology.

Clinical relevance: The existence of a radicular groove is closely related to root anatomy and root canal morphology. Anatomical complexity increases the difficulty of root canal treatment and periodontal therapy; therefore, the current data may provide clinicians with a more thorough understanding of the relationship between radicular grooves and root canal morphology.

MeSH terms

  • Dental Pulp Cavity / anatomy & histology*
  • Humans
  • Mandible / anatomy & histology*
  • X-Ray Microtomography / methods*