MANAGEMENT OF C SHAPED CANALS – CASE SERIES AND REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract

A thorough understanding of the anatomical structure and changes of the root canal is an important parameter that determines the clinical success of endodontic treatment. The "C"-shaped canal system is a special anatomical variation that represents a high-incidence ethnic tendency among Asian populations. According to reports, this feature of root canal anatomy appears in various teeth, but it is most common in lower second molars. These root canal systems are named after the transverse morphology of the root and root canal. The presence of fins or nets connecting each mesial and distal root canal causes changes in the cross-section and 3D shape of the root canal along the root. The diagnosis through conventional radiographic techniques and the management of debridement and filling are usually a challenge for dentists. The purpose of this article is to report the successful endodontic treatment of two mandibular molars with a C-shaped root canal system and to review technical details.

Keywords: Anatomical variation, Cone beam computed tomography, Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath, Mandibular second molar, Root canal configuration, Thermoplasticized gutta-percha