Root canal morphology of mandibular anterior permanent teeth in Turkish sub-population using two classification systems: a cone-beam computed tomography study

Abstract

This study examined the root and canal morphology of mandibular anterior teeth (MA) in the Turkish sub-population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), comparing the findings based on Vertucci's and Ahmed et al. classification systems. The CBCT images were acquired using the 3D Accuitomo CBCT device. Images that were deemed suitable for visualizing the roots, canals, and the complete pulp chamber and apex were included in the study. Vertucci and Ahmed et al. classification systems were employed to determine the root canal morphology. 500 CBCT images and 3000 teeth were analyzed. Type I ((1)MA(1)) was the most frequent, followed by Type III ((1)MA(1-2-1)). 3.8% of teeth could not be classified with Vertucci system. In canine teeth, Vertucci type III ((1)MA(1-2-1)) was significantly more prevalent in males than females (p = 0.038) and Type I ((1)MA(1)) was less frequent in individuals aged 41-50 (p < 0.05). Canal divergence/merging was the most common at the middle/apical level for central (15.5%) and lateral (10.3%) teeth, and at the coronal/middle level for canine teeth (1.9%). Bilateral similarity was high for all tooth groups (> 78%). One-third of mandibular incisor teeth have two canals, with a significant number exhibiting canal divergence/merging that was separated in the middle region and merged in the apical region. The Vertucci classification was found to be inadequate in some cases, while Ahmed et al. classification was able to classify all mandibular incisors with a single code. Ahmed et al. classification is a more useful system for classifying all MA.