CBCT assessment of root and canal morphology in mandibular anterior teeth in a Chilean subpopulation using an alphanumeric coding system

Background Detailed knowledge of root and canal morphology is essential for successful endodontic treatment. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) allows accurate three-dimensional evaluation of anatomical features and variations. Objective To describe the root and canal morphology of 1,008 permanent mandibular anterior teeth in a Chilean subpopulation using CBCT, and to classify canal configurations according to an alphanumeric coding system. Methods A total of 168 CBCT scans from patients aged 15–75 years were retrospectively analyzed. The number of roots and canals, root and corono-radicular lengths, and bilateral symmetry were assessed in 336 mandibular central incisors, 336 mandibular lateral incisors, and 336 mandibular canines. Root canal configurations were classified using an alphanumeric coding system. Results All mandibular incisors presented a single root (100%), while 1.5% of mandibular canines exhibited two roots. The most common canal configuration was a single canal ( 1 TN 1−1 ), observed in 69.3% of central incisors, 68.4% of lateral incisors, and 90.8% of canines. Complex configurations, including 1 TN 1–2−1 and 1 TN 2−1 , were also identified. Bilateral symmetry was recorded in 82.7% of central incisors, 82.1% of lateral incisors, and 86.9% of canines. Conclusions In this Chilean subpopulation, mandibular anterior teeth predominantly exhibited a single root and a simple canal configuration, with a smaller proportion showing complex anatomies.