Maxillary premolar with 4 separate canals

Abstract

Introduction: Recognition of anatomic variations is a challenge for clinicians regardless of which tooth is treated. Maxillary premolars usually have 2 root canals, but the presence of 3 distinct root canals has been reported in 1%-6% of cases.

Methods and results: This report describes the case of a maxillary right second premolar with 4 separate canals: 1 mesial, 1 palatal, and 2 distal canals. This was confirmed by using cone-beam computed tomography and was successfully treated with rotary files and obturated by using a warm vertical compaction technique.

Conclusions: The clinical significance of the present case is that this is the first report of 3 roots and 4 separate canals in a maxillary premolar. Precise knowledge of root canal morphology and its variation is also underlined. Cone-beam computed tomography examination and the operating microscope are excellent tools for identifying and managing these complex root canal systems.

Keywords: Anatomy; CBCT; maxillary premolar.