A rare root canal configuration of bilateral maxillary first molar with 7 root canals diagnosed using cone-beam computed tomographic scanning: a case report.
BACKGROUND
The complexity of the root canal system of maxillary molars presents a constant challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of these teeth. This case report describes the importance of a surgical operating microscope and cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging.


METHODS
Root canal treatment of a left maxillary first molar with 3 roots and 7 canals was successfully performed. Seven canals were identified with the help of a surgical operating microscope and CBCT imaging. CBCT images also confirmed the 3 roots and 7 canals in the right maxillary first molar.


RESULTS
CBCT images confirmed a type IV canal pattern in the distal and palatal root, whereas the mesial root had a type VIII canal pattern.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of a surgical operating microscope and CBCT imaging helps the clinician to diagnose unusual anatomy of a tooth and facilitate successful endodontic treatment.
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, VSPM's Dental College and Research Center, Nagpur, India. Electronic address: badole_g15@yahoo.co.in.
Gautam P
GP
Badole
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, Government Dental College and Hospital, Nagpur, India.
Manjusha M
MM
Warhadpande
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, VSPM's Dental College and Research Center, Nagpur, India.
Pratima R
PR
Shenoi
Government Dental College and Hospital, Nagpur, India.
Chandrakant
C
Lachure
Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, VSPM's Dental College and Research Center, Nagpur, India.
Shital G
SG
Badole
D000328:Adult; D054893:Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / Q000379:methods*; D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006171:Gutta-Percha / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008437:Maxilla / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008866:Microsurgery / Q000295:instrumentation; D008963:Molar / Q000002:abnormalities* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D010485:Periapical Periodontitis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D012387:Root Canal Filling Materials / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012388:Root Canal Irrigants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018915:Root Canal Preparation / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D014098:Toothache / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging
D012387:Root Canal Filling Materials; D012388:Root Canal Irrigants; D006171:Gutta-Percha
Cone-beam computed tomographic imaging; maxillary first molar; root canal anatomy; surgical operating microscope