Canal morphology of maxillary molars: Clinical observations of canal configurations

TLDR

The study aimed to determine the routine detection rate of MB2 canals in 1,732 conventionally treated maxillary molars. Data from 1,096 first molars, 611 second molars, and 25 third molars were collected over eight years and recorded in a modified computer program. MB2 canals were identified in 73.2% of first molars, 50.7% of second molars, and 20% of third molars, with detection rates rising to 93% and 60.4% in first and second molars, respectively, when operators used microscopes, microendodontic instruments, and allocated sufficient clinical time.

Abstract

An examination of 1732 conventionally treated maxillary molars was made in an attempt to determine the percentage of MB2 canals that could be located routinely. The teeth examined were 1096 first molars, 611 second molars, and 25 third molars. The results were recorded on a modified computer program over an 8-yr period of time. An interesting trend was noted. The MB2 canal was found in 802 (73.2%) first molars, 310 (50.7%) second molars, and 5 (20.0%) third molars. It occurred as a separate canal in 54.9% of first molars, 45.6% of second molars, and joined in all third molars. However, as the operator became more experienced, scheduled sufficient clinical time, routinely employed the dental operating microscope, and used specific instruments adapted for microendodontics, MB2 canals were located in 93.0% of first molars and 60.4% in second molars.