%0 Journal Article
%T Influence of root shape on canal complexity at the mandibular molar apical surgical resection level: A micro-CT study.
%A Ginjeira A
%A Neto F
%A Behdad S
%A Farinha I
%A Gonçalves N
%A Martins JNR
%A Pires M
%A Rito Pereira M
%A Vasconcelos I
%A Duarte I
%J Arch Oral Biol
%V 164
%N 0
%D 2024 Aug 27
%M 38718467
%F 2.64
%R 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2024.105983
%X <B>OBJECTIVE: </B>This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the aspect ratios of mandibular molar roots at the apical 3-mm level and their root canal complexity.<BR><B>METHODS: </B>This study used micro-CT imaging to analyze 163 two-rooted mandibular molars. The aspect ratios of the roots at the apical 3-mm level were categorized as "< 2.75" or "≥ 2.75" (mesial) and "< 1.75" or "≥ 1.75" (distal). A two-dimensional (2D) analysis focused on four apical axial cross-section levels to determine the presence of main and accessory canals and isthmus. Additionally, a three-dimensional (3D) assessment of the apical 4-mm of both roots examined main and accessory canals, apical foramina, apical deltas, and middle mesial canals.<BR><B>RESULTS: </B>Mesial roots with aspect ratios ≥ 2.75 showed a higher number of main canals at all levels compared to those with aspect ratios < 2.75 at the 3-mm level. Additionally, the ≥ 2.75 group exhibited more accessory canals and a higher average number of accessory canals. The 3D assessment confirmed significantly more accessory canals and apical foramina in the ≥ 2.75 group. The prevalence of roots with apical deltas was nearly double in the ≥ 2.75 group, and middle mesial canals were exclusively found in this group. In the distal root, the ≥ 1.75 group showed a significantly higher number of main canals at all axial levels. No significant differences were observed between groups in terms of accessory canals, apical foramina, or deltas.<BR><B>CONCLUSIONS: </B>A higher root aspect ratio is related to higher anatomical complexity.