Micro-computed tomography-based anatomical study of the branch canals in mandibular anterior teeth in a Chinese population.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the incidence and distribution of branch canals in mandibular anterior teeth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three hundred mandibular anterior teeth, comprising 100 central incisors, 100 lateral incisors, and 100 canines, were scanned using a micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) system. Three-dimensional (3-D) visualization reconstruction of the root canal system and its branch canals was performed on each specimen. Data regarding the number of branch canals, the distance from the anatomical apex to the branch canal, and the orientation of each branch orifice were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS: One hundred and fifty-three primary branch canals and 35 secondary branch canals were detected in the specimens overall. The incidence of branch canals in mandibular anterior teeth was 34%, with the highest incidence (50%) exhibited in mandibular canines, followed by lateral incisors (29%). Of the 153 primary branch canals found in the mandibular anterior tooth samples investigated, 82.35% appeared within 3 mm of the apical region, while 71.90% were labial and lingual canals.

CONCLUSIONS: There was regularity in the distribution and orientation of branch canals in mandibular anterior teeth.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This knowledge may be employed as a guide in clinical endodontic therapy.