Morphology and Prevalence of C-shaped Canal in Mandibular Second Molars in a Population in North of Iran

Background and purpose: In order to achieve a successful root canal treatment, knowledge on root canal morphology and anatomy is essential. This study investigated the prevalence and morphology of the C- shaped canal in the mandibular second molar. Materials and methods: In this cross sectional study, we used cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 260 patients obtained from a radiology center in Sari, north of Iran (2018). The patients attended the center for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Root canal images of mandibular second molar were examined in cross sections of each 1 mm of root canal. Teeth with C-shaped canal were classified according to Fan et al. Statistical analysis was performed applying Chi-square test and t-test. Results: Among the images of 260 mandibular second molars studied, 30 teeth (11.5%) were found with C-shaped canals and C1 was the most common form. In this study, gender had a significant impact on the prevalence of C-shaped canals and women were identified with much higher prevalence of the condition. Conclusion: The prevalence of C-shaped canals among molar teeth was relatively high in north of Iran, therefore, dentists should have enough knowledge on this root canal anatomy and consider an endodontic referral.