2023 Volume 44 Issue 2 Pages 130-136
Abstract : Purpose : The aim of this case study was to clarify the structure of an accessory root canal found in a gutter-shaped root.
Case : The patient was a 68-year-old woman who had been experiencing movement and swelling of her mandibular left second molar and occlusal pain for a month. She had started her usual periodontal treatment, but underwent a tooth extraction after initial treatment. When the microstructure of the extracted tooth was observed by micro X-ray CT and SEM, a secondary root canal opened in the longitudinal groove on the buccal side at 5 mm from the apex was found.
Discussion : In Japan, the mandibular second molar has a 30% chance of having a gutter-shaped root. Many c-type root canals are found in the root canals of gutter-shaped roots, and isthmus is also seen, so root canal treatment requires care.
Conclusion : When there is an accessory root canal shorter than the root canal that opens at the apex, it is necessary to be careful of perforation during root canal treatment.
