Incidence of fourth canal in mandibular first molars - a study

The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of three and four root canals in mandibular first molars in our population. One hundred and fifty patients were recruited in this study. The data were obtained on specially designed proforma. The teeth were examined clinically and radiographically. Sixty three females and 87 males participated in this study. The age ranged from 15 to 63 years. 40% of lower first molars had four canals [two mesial and two distal] while remaining had three canals [two mesial and one distal]. The incidence of four canals in permanent mandibular first molars was relatively high in this study group