Abstract
Introduction
The mandibular premolar C-shaped anatomy has been presented as a complex morphology
to be treated. The objective of this retrospective observational study was to evaluate
and characterize, in in vivo conditions, the incidence of these morphologies using cone-beam computed tomographic
(CBCT) technology.
Methods
Mandibular premolar CBCT samples were collected from a preexisting database. All teeth
were analyzed in 3 planes (axial, coronal, and sagittal), and the C-shape classification
was performed at 3 different axial levels (coronal, middle, and apical). C-shape presence
and configuration were recorded as well as the number of roots, the presence of a
radicular groove, and Vertucci classification. The Z test for proportions was used
to analyze the differences between independent groups. Intraobserver reliability was
tested using the Cohen kappa test.
Results
Two thousand twelve mandibular premolars were included in this study. A prevalence
of C-shaped morphologies was noted in 2.3% and 0.6% of mandibular first and second
premolars, respectively. This clinical condition was mostly unilateral. The C-shaped
configuration (C1 and C2) was found mainly in the middle axial level. Its presence
was uncommon in the apical level and null in the coronal level; 61.5% of all mandibular
first premolar C shapes were identified in Vertucci type V roots. Differences were
observed among sex, teeth, and Vertucci root configuration at P < .05.
Conclusions
Although the mandibular premolar C-shaped anatomy has a low prevalence ratio, a clinician
should be aware of its existence, mainly when treating roots with Vertucci type V
configuration. The prevalence was statistically higher in first premolars and males.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: April 04, 2017
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© 2017 American Association of Endodontists.