Abstract
Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the number of roots and canal configuration
of maxillary first and second molars in Qatari population.
Materials and Methods A total of 544 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) records of Qatari patients were
included in this study. The CBCT images were reviewed by two endodontists. The age,
sex, bilateral symmetry, root number, and canal configuration according to Vertucci
were tabulated.
Results About 97.5% maxillary first molars had three roots and 2.5% had two roots. Maxillary
second molar showed 88.2% three roots, 7.3% two roots, 3.3% single root, and 1.2%
four roots. For maxillary first molars, the most common Vertucci classifications for
the mesiobuccal root were type IV (2-2, 35.9%) and type II (2-1, 21.1%). For maxillary
second molars, the most common Vertucci classifications for the mesiobuccal root were
type IV (2-2, 27%), type III (1-2-1, 21.3%), type I (1, 19.6%), and type II (2-1,
18.9%). In maxillary first molar, 53.1% right is different from the left and in maxillary
second molars, 60.2% right is different from the left.
Conclusions In Qatari population, three roots are common in maxillary molars. Mesiobuccal root
of maxillary first molars is predominant with Vertucci type IV (2-2) and type II (2-1).
Maxillary second molars showed variable Vertucci classification. High bilateral asymmetry
was found in canal configuration of the same individuals that should be considered
during root canal treatment of two opposite molars.
Keywords
Qatari population - maxillary molars - morphology
