An In-Vitro Study of the Root Canal Configuration of Mandibular First Premolars in a Bengali Subpopulation Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Aim: This study aims to analyze the root canal configuration system of mandibular first premolars in the Bengali subpopulation using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Materials and methods: Based on Vertucci's classification, the root canal morphology of 100 randomly selected mandibular first premolars in 56 males and 44 females from the Bengali subpopulation of West Bengal was assessed in vitro. The location of the apical foramen, lateral canal, C-shaped canal, types of canal orifice cross-sections, minor constriction diameter, tooth length, and root length were noted. A chi-square test was conducted to test the categorical variables at a 5% significance level.

Results: Vertucci's type I (75%, n=75), followed by Vertucci's type V (23%, n=23), were significantly more common in the present study sample. Most of the two-rooted teeth showed a division at the middle one-third (82.8%, n=18). Cross-sectional evaluation of the samples inferred that an ovular cross-section was most common (78%, n=78). All the above-mentioned proportions were significantly higher (P<0.0001). A C-shaped canal was found in 19% (n=19) of the study samples, and significant associations were found.

Conclusion: Vertucci type I and type V canal configurations are the most frequently observed in mandibular first premolars among a Bengali sub-population.