Diagnosis and root canal treatment of a mandibular second premolar with three root canals.

AIM: To present a case of a mandibular second premolar with three root canals.

SUMMARY: An accurate diagnosis of the morphology of the root canal system is a prerequisite for successful root canal treatment. A review of the literature reveals a low incidence of all types of premolars with three root canals. Diagnostic means such as preoperative radiographs and examination of the pulp chamber floor aid the location of root canal orifices. The diagnostic and therapeutic problems concerning premolars with unusual anatomy are described on the basis of a clinical example. A case report describes the successful treatment of a mandibular second premolar with three root canals.

KEY LEARNING POINTS: Clinicians should be aware of unusual root canal anatomy in mandibular premolars. Radiographs exposed at two different horizontal angles and their careful interpretation facilitate the search of additional root canals. The use of magnification and additional lighting are recommended for the clinical examination of the pulpal floor.