Evaluating Root Canal Configuration of Permanent Mandibular Incisors Using CBCT in an Iraqi Subpopulation (Middle Euphrates Region)

Abstract

Background/purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the morphology of root canal space of permanent mandibular incisors in a sample of the population of Karbala governorate in Iraq using cone-beam computed tomography images.

Materials and methods: A total of (263) CBCT images including (980) mandibular incisors were included in this study. Number of roots, root canals and root canal configuration according to Vertucci classification were evaluated and analyzed statistically. Gender prevalence of root canal configuration was also evaluated.

Results: All the examined incisors had a single root. About 66.43% had a single root canal, while two canals were found in 33.57% of the teeth. The differences between males and females and between central and lateral incisors were statistically insignificant (p < 0.05). Vertucci canal configuration types I, II, III, and V were detected, type I was the most prevalent (66.43%) followed by type III (30.2%), then type II (3.27%), and type V was found in only one case (0.1%). There was a high degree of bilateral symmetry regarding canal number (89.12%) for central incisors and (88.84%) for lateral incisors.

Conclusion: In Karbala governorate, bouts of 1/3 of mandibular incisors have two root canals with different configurations. These findings are comparable to those reported in the Iraqi-Kurdistan region.