Abstract

Background: The presence of a supernumerary root in permanent mandibular first molars (PMFMs) has got a significant clinical implication in endodontic. The study aimed to assess the prevalence of radix entomolaris (RE) in the Saudi population of Qassim Province.
Methods: Four hundred Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images of Saudi nationals that satisfied the inclusion criteria were used for the evaluation of RE. The sociodemographic details of the participants were recorded, and the CBCT was evaluated under optimal conditions. Tables and charts represented descriptive statistics of the data. The Pearson's Chi-square test was used for estimating any relationship between categorical variables.
Results: The prevalence of an additional third root in PMFM in this study was 12.5% and of four roots was 0.5%. There was no statistical relationship of gender seen with the prevalence of RE (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: In the endodontic therapy of permanent mandibular molars, especially the first molars, an accurate diagnosis and identification of extra roots are very essential for the success of treatment. The radiographic examination should include CBCT images as these techniques have got good accuracy and reliability over conventional radiographs.

Key words: Radix Entomolaris; CBCT; Mandibular molars .