Endodontic Management of Mandibular Second Molars with 'C' Shaped Root Canal Configuration – Reports of Three Cases

Recognition of unusual variations in the canal configuration is critical because it has been established that the root with a single tapering canal and an apical foramen is an exception rather than the rule. The C- shaped configuration, which is an important anatomic variation, is characterized by a C-shaped groove that connects one or more root canals. This groove can occur anywhere along the root canal system, making it difficult to diagnose and treat. Furthermore, C-shaped canals are challenging if not possible to predict radio graphically. The aim of presented three case reports is to describe different types of C-shaped canals in mandibular second molars and their endodontic management. In the first case report of tooth #47, preoperative radiograph showed fusion of roots, and the root canal outline were not clear. Therefore CBCT was advised to the patient confirming the C shaped root canal configuration, which persisted along the entire length and width of the C-shaped root canal and exits at single apical foramen. In the second case report of tooth #47, the anatomy of the floor of the pulp chamber suggested an incomplete “C” with the fusion of the mesiolingual and distal root canals and a separate orifice for mesiobuccal root canal giving the appearance of semicolon (;) The third case report of tooth #47 radiographically, the tooth had unusual root morphology with a single conical root. Clinically, the pulp chamber floor had a C-shaped continuous trough