Póster Conseuro París 2013 Joan Bernardo

MORPHOLOGIC VARIATIONS OF THE MAXILLARY MOLARS.

Objective : To report anatomical variations in the root canal configurations of maxillary molars. Unusual root and root canal morphologies associated with both buccal roots of upper molars have been recorded in several studies in the literature. However, scientific information focusing on variations of the palatal root is rare. Some authors have reported that maxillary second molar has two palatal canals in 2.08% (ex vivo assessment) and two palatal roots in 1.4%.

Methods : Four cases are presented involving the root canal treatment of maxillary second molars with unusual morphologic configurations of the palatal root canals.

Results : Two second maxillary molars with palatal canal type V Vertucci configuration and two second maxillary molars with two palatal roots and two palatal canals were identified under operating microscope. Root canal treatment was performed using mechanical instrumentation with Protaper (Dentisply Maillefer, Balaigues, Switzeland). Then, the canals were obturated with Thermafil (Dentisply Maillefer, Balaigues, Switzeland).

Conclusion : Treatment of the entire root-canal system is essential for the success of the endodontic therapy. Thus, it is necessary for the clinician to have knowledge of dental anatomy and its variations. Unusual root canal anatomy can occur in palatal roots of maxillary molars. Therefore, careful examination of radiographs taken from different angles and the use of the operating microscope can help us to find these anatomic variations.