title: Root canal configuration of maxillary first permanent molars in an Iranian population.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  It is critical to have a proper knowledge of the normal anatomy of the pulp and its variations for the success of endodontic treatment. The purpose of this study was to investigate variations in the root canal system of maxillary first permanent molars in an Iranian population.
  
  
  METHODS
  In this study, 137 maxillary first molars were decalcified, dye-injected, cleared and studied.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The results demonstrated that 37.96% of the maxillary first molars under study had three canals, 58.4% had four canals and 3.64% had five canals.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  According to the results of this study and considering variations in the root canal systems of maxillary first molars, it seems that great care should be taken in the root canal treatment of these teeth.
authors.affiliation: Associate Professor, Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
authors.forename: Shahriar
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Shahi
authors.forename: Hamid Reza
authors.initials: HR
authors.lastname: Yavari
authors.forename: Saeed
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Rahimi
authors.forename: Ali
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Ahmadi
keywords: Canal configuration; maxillary molar; root canal system