title: Middle distal canal of the mandibular first molar: a case report and literature review.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To present a clinical case report in a mandibular first molar with a middle distal canal, along with a review of the literature.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  With the use of magnification, either by microscopes or by loupes, there is an increasing possibility of detecting additional canals. The present case describes root canal treatment in a mandibular first molar with two roots and a Sert and Bayirli Type XVIII canal configuration in the distal root. The presence of a three canals in the distal root of mandibular first molars has been reported to have an incidence of 0.2-3%.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  * Clinicians should be aware of the variable root canal anatomy in the distal root of mandibular first molars. * Use of magnification helps to identify and locate additional root canals. * Three root canals in the distal root of mandibular first molar teeth might occur.
authors.affiliation: Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Meenakshi Ammal Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. drkottooran@gmail.com
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Kottoor
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Sudha
authors.forename: N
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Velmurugan
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D008334:Mandible; D008853:Microscopy; D008963:Molar / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D010485:Periapical Periodontitis / Q000628:therapy; D011671:Pulpitis / Q000628:therapy; D011859:Radiography; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging