A micro-computed tomographic evaluation of maxillary first molar accessory root canal morphology in a Black South African subpopulation

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to investigate the accessory root canal morphology of maxillary first molars in a Black South African subpopulation. METHODS: Micro-computed tomography was used to investigate 101 maxillary first molars (from 50 male and 51 female teeth, right 53 teeth, left 48 teeth). The prevalence of chamber canals, and the number, type and location (root third) of accessory canals were recorded. The relationships between arch side, sex and age were examined using chi-squared tests of association. Intra- and inter-observer reliability were assessed using Cohen's kappa test. RESULTS: Intra- and inter-rater agreement was 96.9% and 98.1%, respectively. Variations in accessory root canal anatomy according to side, sex and age were evident. Chamber canals were identified in 10.9% of teeth. Accessory canals were found mainly in the apical third of most teeth in the sample, and distributed predominantly in the mesio-buccal root. Apical deltas were most prevalent in the mesio-buccal root, and their frequency decreased in the palatal and then finally the disto-buccal root. CONCLUSION: Accessory root canals were common in this population, and showed a diverse range of anatomy. The present findings will be of assistance to clinicians during endodontic treatment and will also be valuable for educational purposes.