RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: A thorough knowledge of the anatomic morphology of the root canal system is necessary for the long-term success of the root canal therapy. The occurrence of C-shaped root canal configuration is one such variation. Achievement of favorable prognosis after commencing root canal therapy in such teeth is one of the challenges imposed on the endodontist. Hence, we evaluated the healing occurring after endodontic therapy in patients with C-shaped root canals in mandibular molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted in the Department of Conservative Dentistry of the institution and included assessment of all the patients who underwent root canal treatment of the mandibular first and second molars. Endodontic therapy was performed in all the cases by experienced endodontist. Final postoperative radiographs were taken. Recording of the data of the personal and clinical details of a total of 250 patients was done. All the clinical and radiographic details of the patients, such as tooth location in the jaw, presence or absence of C-shaped canals, status of the pulp tissue, presence or absence of the fractures, and other details of the patients were recorded. Radiographic and clinical examination of the tooth of the patients was done during the baseline visit and further during the follow-up visits. The presence of C-shaped root canals was confirmed using the radiographs. Periapical index (PI) scoring system was used. Categories defined for enlisting the healing after the root canal treatment with the assessment of the PI score. All the results were analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. RESULTS: Vital pulp tissue was encountered in majority of the cases. C-shaped root canal configuration was observed in 40% of the cases included in the present study. After completion of the endodontic therapy, complete crown placement was done in only 22% of the cases. In cases of vital teeth with C-shaped root canals configuration, most of the teeth showed complete healing. Significant results were obtained while comparing the complete coverage crown parameter in relation to the healing process in teeth with C-shaped root canals. CONCLUSION: In the present study, no significant effect of the C-shaped root canal configuration was found on the healing rate of the endodontic therapy in mandibular molars. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Meticulous endodontic therapy with special techniques should be done while preparing teeth with C-shaped root canals.