Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Current Research in Dental Sciences, cilt.35, sa.3, ss.189-196, 2025 (Scopus, TRDizin)
Objective: The aim of this study is to compare the accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and the clearing technique in the evaluation of root canal morphology of human primary molars, which is of great importance for successful endodontic treatment. Method: A total of 80 extracted primary molars (n=20) were divided into four groups: Group I = mandibular first primary molar, Group II = mandibular second primary molar, Group III = maxillary first primary molar, Group IV = maxillary second primary molar. Cone beam computed tomography images were obtained before the teeth were subjected to the clearing procedure. The number of roots, canal types according to Vertucci's classification and the frequency of accessory canals were evaluated. The findings obtained with both techniques were compared and the agreement between them was analyzed using the kappa coefficient and chi-square (χ²) test with SPSS 22.0 software. Results: In mandibular primary molars, two roots were observed in 100%. Maxillary primary molars usually had two roots and fusion between distobuccal and palatal roots was detected in 65%. Root canal configurations varied; Type IV and Type I were most frequently observed in mesial canals, Type V and Type I in distal canals, and Type I in palatal canals. A significant agreement was found between cone beam computed tomography and clearing technique in detecting root canals in mesial, distal and palatal canals (P =.001). Accessory canals were most frequently observed in mesial canals and furcation regions. A significant agreement was found between both techniques in detecting accessory canals in mesial, distal, palatal canals and furcation regions of primary molars (P =.001). Conclusion: This study reveals the variations in root canal morphology of primary molars and especially the importance of accessory canals. The fact that cone beam computed tomography has a similar level of accuracy to the clearing technique, which is accepted as the gold standard, provides important contributions to the diagnosis and treatment process.