Evaluation of the number of roots and morphology of the root canal of mandibular premolars by Cone-beam computed tomography in the Brazilian subpopulation

• Grant number: 22/05440-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2022
• End date: June 30, 2023
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Dentistry - Endodontics
• Principal Investigator: Antonio Miranda da Cruz Filho
• Grantee: Guilherme Barrico Costa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

The objective of the present study is to analyze the number of roots and classify the configuration of the root canal according to Vertucci's classification, in lower first and second premolars of a Brazilian subpopulation, using images acquired with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). This study also aims to identify the influence of age and sex in the root canal configuration. CBCT images will be collected from patients undergoing computed tomography (CT) at the School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto. After approval of this project by the local Research Ethics Committee, 6,360 CT scans of patients of both sexes will be evaluated. From this total, we will select patient examinations who present permanent lower first premolars, with fully developed roots without resorption, and with good image quality in the area of interest. The sample will be evaluated by visualizing the sagittal, axial, and coronal planes, using Radiant DICOM Viewer 2020 5.5.1 software. Two calibrated examiners will analyze the images. The number of roots and the configuration of the root canal, according to the patient's sex and age, will be recorded in individual worksheets and identified with a number. Data will be presented as descriptive analysis and statistically analyzed using SPSS software (Version 28.0.0; SPSS Inc, IBM, USA). We will also use Spearman's correlation test to verify if there is a correlation of sex and number of roots, as well as Wilcoxon test to compare the configuration of the canals with sex and age.(AU)