Exploring mandibular second molar root canal configurations and their proximity to mandibular canal: A cross-sectional cone-beam computed tomography analysis

Aim: The study aimed to assess the canal configuration of mandibular second molar roots and their relationship to the mandibular canal using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in the Andhra Pradesh population. Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty-four CBCT-scans of mandibular second molars were examined to determine Vertucci's canal configurations, number of root canals, distance of mandibular nerve canal from the root apices, degree of curvature of roots, incidence of additional roots, and C-shaped canals. The relationship between age and distance from the mandibular nerve canal to root apices was assessed using the chi-square test, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Version 23.0. Results: Three root canals were identified in 94.7% of mandibular second molars. In the mesial root, Type V was the most common canal configuration, followed by Type IV, while Type I was predominant in the distal root. The average curvature was 23.48°. C-shaped canal configurations with merged roots were observed in 5.3% of patients. The mean distance from the mesial root apex to the mandibular canal was 3.66 mm, whereas the distance from the distal root apex was 2.98 mm, indicating that the distal root was closer to the mandibular canal than the mesial root. Additionally, the mean distance was shorter in females than in males. As age increased, the distance from the apices of the root to the mandibular nerve canal also increased. Conclusions: This study highlights anatomical variations of the mandibular second molar crucial for successful endodontic treatments and also helps in forensic analysis as root morphology can differ based on geographic location, patient's race and gender. By understanding these ethnic variations, clinicians can optimize treatment strategies for better patient outcomes.