Age-related changes in the morphology of the root canal system of mandibular first molars: a micro-CT study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate changes on root canal morphology in patients with different ages using micro-CT technology.Materials and methodsMandibular first molars (n = 150) were scanned at a pixel size of 13.68 mu m, categorized into 3 groups according to patient's age and analyzed regarding configuration, orifices, apical foramina, root length, canal volume, and surface area. Morphological 2D and 3D parameters were evaluated in distal roots with Type I configuration (n = 109) as well as the morphology of isthmuses Types I and III in 68 mesial roots. One-way ANOVA post hoc Tukey and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for statistical analyses (alpha = 5%).ResultsA great variation in the canal configuration was found. No difference was observed in roots' length (p > 0.05). Canal volume reduced with age (p < 0.05), while surface area increased (p < 0.05) in patients <= 30 years. There was no difference in canal/root length, area, and from foramen to the apex in distal roots with Type I configuration (p > 0.05), but 2D and 3D parameters significantly decreased with age (p < 0.05). Overall, the diameter of the isthmuses' roof reduced with age (p < 0.05). In patients >= 31 years with Type III isthmus the distance from the isthmus floor to the foramen of the mesiolingual canal also decreased (p < 0.05).ConclusionOverall, the internal morphology of the mesial roots of mandibular first molars was more affected by aging than distal canals. The most relevant tested parameter that significantly reduced in both roots was the volume of the root canal systems.

Automated summary

This study used micro-CT technology to evaluate changes in root canal morphology in patients of different ages. The results showed significant variations in canal configuration, with canal volume decreasing and surface area increasing with age in patients aged 30 and below. The internal morphology of the mesial roots was more affected by aging than distal canals, and the most significant change was a reduction in the volume of the root canal systems.