Morphology of root canals in lower human premolars

BACKGROUND: The knowledge of the root canal morphology and the possible anatomical variations of mandibular premolars are important for the successful endodontic treatment of such cases. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of two or three root canals in extracted first and second mandibular premolars which were collected from health centers in Syria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and ten human mandibular premolars (70 first premolars and 40 second premolars) with fully developed roots were investigated. After access the cavity of the teeth, the root canals were explored and radiographs were taken. RESULTS: Premolars with one canal were found in 87% of cases (53% first premolar and 34% second premolar) and premolars with two canals were found in 12% of cases (10% first premolar and 2% second premolar). There was just one case (1%) where a first premolar had three canals. These differences were statistically significant with P<0.05. CONCLUSION: Clinicians should be aware of the anatomical variation in the mandibular premolars and be able to apply this knowledge in radiographical and clinical interpretation.