Evaluation of the Relationship Between Interorificial Distance and Internal Root Canal Anatomy of Mandibular Incisors Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between the interorificial distance (IOD) and buccolingual distance (BLD) in mandibular incisors with two canals and apical termination, along with demographic (age and gender) and anatomical factors (number of canals and Vertucci classification) in the Turkish subpopulation using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).
Methods: High-quality CBCT scans of patients with all mature mandibular incisors present and without previous endodontic treatment, root resorption, calcification, cracks, fractures, or restorations were screened in terms of demographic data, Vertucci canal configurations, IOD, BLD, and apical termination types. Data were statistically analyzed.
Results: A total of 1344 mandibular incisors from 336 patients were analyzed, revealing that 25% had two canals, with no significant differences by gender, age, or tooth side. The most common canal configuration was Vertucci Type I, while Types III and II were mainly found in teeth with two canals. BLD decreased significantly with age (p<0.05). The BLD/IOD ratio was significantly decreased in teeth with two distinct apical foramina (p<0.05). A significant positive correlation was found between BLD and IOD (p<0.05).
Conclusion: The correlation between BLD and IOD offers a practical reference for predicting canal configurations, while the differences in apical termination types highlight the need for tailored clinical approaches. Understanding these anatomical variations is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes

Keywords: Canal configuration, cone beam computed tomography, endodontics, mandibular incisors; vertucci classification