Cone‐beam Computed Tomography Investigation of the Anatomy of Permanent Mandibular Premolars in a Cohort of Caucasians

Aim The aim of the present study was to evaluate the number of roots and the anatomy of root canal systems of permanent mandibular premolars using images derived from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. Methods Mandibular CBCT scans of a cohort of Caucasians (Italians) were evaluated using a dedicated software. The number of roots and the anatomy of root canal systems (following the classification by Vertucci) were recorded, and the prevalence of each type was calculated. Results In total, 112 mandibular scans were evaluated accounting for 97 first premolars and 88 second premolars; 94.2% of first premolars and 96.6% of second premolars had one single root. The most common root canal system configuration was type I for both first premolars (79.2%) and second premolars (95.5%). Moreover, a large variability was observed. Conclusions Based on the results, mandibular premolars show a significant heterogeneity in root canal system anatomy that could complicate non-surgical endodontic treatment.