ABSTRACT
This study is to investigate the canal system in the mesiobuccal root of the maxillry first molar. 61 maxillary first molars were randomly selected. Serial transverse sections were made perpendicular to the long axis of the mesiobuccal root. Each section was placed in 3% sodium hypochlorite for 24 hours and rinsed in water and dried. The resected surface was stained with 2% methylene blue dye and examined with stereomicroscope. 1. Canal configuration analysis showed that 36.1% of the specimen classified as type I, 16.4% as type II, 37.7% as type III and 9.8% as type IV. 2. Type II canal was merged in one canal within 1 to 4mm of the apex. 40% of type II canal converged at 2mm of the apex. 3. Type IV canal was divided into two canal within 2 to 4mm of the apex. 66.6% of type IV canal branched off at 2mm of the apex. 4. None of the sections had more than two main root canal. 5. 48.4% of the sections in 3mm with two canals contained an isthmusand more than 70% with two canals has isthmus at 4 to 5mm sections. 63.9% of the mesiobuccal root of maxillary first molar had two canaland 76.5% of sections with two canals in 5 MM had an isthmus. Because of this complexity the clinician should always search for extra canal carefullyand root canal system, including an isthmus, should be cleaned and shaped completelyand obturated three dimensionally for successful endodontic treatment.