Prevalence of root canal system configurations in the brazilian population analyzed by cone-beam computed tomography – a systematic review

Abstract

Objectives: This study performed a systematic review of anatomy prevalence studies using cone-beam computed tomography to comprehend the root and root canal configuration types in Brazilian sub-populations. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA’s statements. Four electronic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Lilacs, and Cochrane Collaboration) were accessed using MeSH terms and free-text keywords. The studies were selected according to predefined criteria. References of the collected studies, three peer-reviewed endodontic journals, and two peer-reviewed evidence-based dentistry journals were hand searched. The authors were contacted for additional information, if necessary. Eligible studies were submitted to a scientific merit assessment by two evaluators independently, who reached a final consensus for each study score using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool for prevalence studies. Results: A total of 2266 studies were identified. After analysis, 20 full-text articles were accessed for eligibility and 17 were included for qualitative synthesis. A high prevalence of mandibular incisors presenting two root canals was noted (~35.0% – 40.0). Moreover, a high proportion of two-rooted (17.0% – 28.4%) and two root canals (50.1% – 75.0%) morphologies were identified in maxillary second premolars. A wide range and a high percentage of a second mesiobuccal canal were detected for both maxillary first (37.1% – 88.5%) and second molars (21.8% – 83.4%). A second root canal prevalence ranging from 12.4% to 23.4% was observed in the distal root of mandibular first molars. Conclusions: In conclusion, different Brazilian sub-populations may present divergent characteristics regarding the root and root canal configurations. Clinicians should be aware of these variations for proper planning of endodontic treatment.