Root and canal morphology of mandibular incisors and canines in South Asian Indian population by canal staining and tooth clearing technique

Introduction: To study the root canal morphology of mandibular incisors and canines in South Asian Indians using a staining and tooth clearing technique. Materials and Methods: One hundred each of mandibular central incisors, lateral incisors, and canine specimens were collected from various dental schools and clinics across India. Pulp tissue was removed and the root canals were stained with Indian ink. The specimens were subjected to decalcification in 10% nitric acid followed by dehydration in ascending concentrations of alcohol. Subsequently, specimens were cleared in methyl salicylate. Results: All hundred mandibular central incisors were single rooted with a single canal. Ninety-six percent had a single and 4% had two apical foramina. While 84% had Type I, 8% had Type II, 4% had Type III, and 4% had Type IV Vertucci's root canal anatomy. No lateral canals were seen. All hundred mandibular lateral incisors were single rooted with a single canal. While 92% had a single foramen, 8% had two apical foramina. While 80% had Type I, 8% had Type II, 4% had Type III, and 8% had Type IV Vertucci root canal anatomy. Four percent of the lateral incisors showed the presence of lateral canals. All hundred mandibular canines studied were single rooted with a single canal, one apical foramen. Ninety-two percent had a Type I and 8% had a Vertucci Type II root canal anatomy with 12% of the specimen showing the presence of lateral canals. Conclusion: Not much variation was seen in the root canal anatomies with Vertucci Type I anatomy predominating. Lateral canals were present in the mandibular lateral incisors and canines.