Evaluating the Internal Anatomy of Maxillary Premolars in an Adult Saudi Subpopulation Using 2 Classifications: A CBCT-Based Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background Understanding the root canal morphology is important for successful endodontic treatment. This retrospective cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) study aimed to compare the adult maxillary premolars (MP), root, and canal morphology among a Saudi Arabian subpopulation based on Vertucci and Ahmed classifications. Material/Methods Scans of 1336 MP – 656 first premolars (MFP) and 680 second premolars (MSP) – were analyzed for the number of roots, morphology of the canals, and symmetry among them. The data were grouped based on the traditional preestablished Vertucci system and newer instantaneous code-based Ahmed classification. Comparative analysis was done using the chi-square test. Results Two roots were common in MFP with 84.4% of the population, followed by those with 1 root and those with 3 roots. In MSP, single roots were more common. The results were non-significant with P values of 0.859 and 0.471, respectively. Most of these MFP had Type IV Vertucci configuration/ 2 TNB 1 P 1 Ahmed et al code (TN-tooth number, B-buccal canal, P-palatal canal). In MSP, Type I Vertucci/ 1 TN 1 Ahmed et al code was most common. However, the results were not statistically significant for the PM with P values of 0.997 and 0.732, respectively. Sex-based difference among them for the roots and root canals was also non-significant. Symmetry among PM in opposite quadrants was 87.1% in MFP and 90% in MSP. Conclusions Two roots with Type IV ( 2 TNB 1 P 1 ) and 1 root with Type I ( 1 TN 1 ) were most common in MFP and MSP, respectively. Symmetry among opposing PM was high.