Assessment of the endodontic space in mandibular molars with cone beam computed tomography

The main goal of endodontics is to preserve the dental pulp, which is a complex network of blood and lymphatic vessels and nerves, organized into specialized tissue. The health and functionality of the pulp is crucial for maintaining the vitality and longevity of natural teeth, but in the event of pathological changes and diseases, endodontic treatment is performed as a therapy, which can be performed in one or more visits to the dentist.
Radiography always goes hand in hand with endodontics. Nowadays, we have at our disposal a multitude of methods, techniques and modern technologies for easy and accurate visualization of the endodontic space as well as for the correct diagnosis of pathologies of endodontic origin. Cone beam computed tomography, as a newer modern technology, allows us to do all of this.
X-rays are the first physical parameter that provides access and partial visibility into the canal system, starting from diagnostics, anatomy, topography, and pathology of the teeth in general. Various imaging techniques provide a two-dimensional representation of the teeth, and are often insufficient in presenting the anatomical structures in the endodontic space. All of this complicates the therapeutic treatment itself, and of course, has a prospective impact on the success of the therapy. In recent decades, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), as one of the more modern methodologies, has further increased the possibilities for diagnostics, accessibility, and three-dimensional visualization of complex cases of the endodontic space, which subsequently increases the success of the therapy.
The examination of the anatomical morphological characteristics of a certain population group in a certain geographical area is nothing new in the world. In our country, there is no relevant research on the variations in the root canal system in lower molars.
In this research, we want to investigate the variations and calculate their prevalence. This will help professional dentists in the endodontic treatment of teeth.
This research was conducted on 40 patients, that is, 160 mandibular molars were analyzed.
Analyzing the results obtained, we witness almost all the variations in mandibular molars and their endodontic space that are described in the literature.