Relation between Bucco-lingual Dimension and Root Canal Morphology in Mandibular Incisors: a Morphometric Study

Background and Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between bucco-lingual dimension and root canal morphology in mandibular incisors. Materials and Methods: A total of 100 mandibular incisors were used in this study. The bucco-lingual dimensions of each tooth were measured at the level of cemento-enamel junction by using a digital caliper. Thereafter, the crowns were ground off until the root canal orifice was exposed. The canal orifices of each tooth were negotiated under the operation microscope. Additionally, digital-radiographs were taken from approximal aspect and then grouped according to the Vertucci’s classification. The Student t-test and one-way ANOVA, followed by a post hoc analysis at a level of 0.05 were made. Results: Statistical analysis showed that both the number and the type of root canals were significantly affected from buccolingual dimension. Conclusions: When the bucco-lingual dimension increased, two canals were observed. During the clinical practice the buccolingual dimension of the tooth crown should be considered as a preoperative predictor related to the canal morphology.