(PR01) A CBCT Analysis of MB2 Morphology in Maxillary 1st Molars

Abstract: The morphology of maxillary first molars can be very complex and conventional digital images may not accurately provide the root canal anatomy to assist with a desired outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship of inter-orifice distance, presence, and configuration of mesiobuccal canal (MB2) in maxillary first molars acquired by limited view CBCT. Sixty maxillary first molars (mean age 54.9 years) images were acquired with Veraview X800 Morita CBCT (pixel size= 80 μm) and evaluated according to Vertucci’s classification. Three independent evaluators (oral and maxillofacial radiology resident, endodontic resident and board-certified endodontist) evaluated the distance between the center points of the mesiobuccal and palatal canal orifices (MB1-P). Statistical analysis was completed using one way analysis of variance (ANOVA, p< 0.05) and Tukey post-hoc test. MB2 canal was present in 47 roots (78%). The mean distance of MB-P was found to be 5.84 mm with a standard deviation of 0.66mm +/-. The incidence of classes was the following: class I: 22%, class II: 45%, class III: 0%, and class IV: 33%. There was a significant difference (p=0.0018) between the presence of MB2 and inter-orifice distance. There was also a significant difference (p=0.0064) in MB-P orifice distance and Vertucci classification type. There was no significant difference in MB-P orifice distance and sex.

Conclusions: MB-P canal orifice distance can accurately predict the presence of MB2 and its configuration according to Vertucci’s classification.