ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Understanding the root canal systems of molars and the association of root canal system in adjacent or contralateral molars is important for dental practice. This study aimed to use cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to analyze the morphology similarity of root canal systems in the maxillary first and second molars. METHODS: CBCT images of 1741 maxillary molars in a total of 519 patients were blindly examined to analyze the correlation of root canal systems between maxillary first and second molars as well as the bilateral first and second molars. RESULTS: The most common type in maxillary first molars is 3R4C (3 roots/4 canals), whereas in maxillary second molars is 3R3C.The symmetry in type of root canals in bilateral maxillary first and second molars were 87.36% and 79.85%, respectively. The similarities of root canal system in adjacent maxillary first and second molars were 53.07% (right side) and 52.58% (left side). The concurrence of MB2 canal in bilateral maxillary first molars is 77.8%, and 35.97% in maxillary second molars. In the 110 patients with MB2 canal in bilateral maxillary second molars, the chance of bilateral MB2 canals in their maxillary first molar is almost 100%. CONCLUSION: Maxillary first molars have higher prevalence of 3R4C than second molars. The symmetry in bilateral maxillary molars is higher than the similarity in adjacent maxillary first and second molars. Application of CBCT analysis of root canal system can improve endodontic treatment outcomes. The correlation of root canal system between teeth is useful for genetic linkage.
