Prevalence of three rooted deciduous mandibular molars in Indian children

Abstract

Objectives

Three rooted mandibular molars are termed as Radix entomolaris. The prevalence of the same in permanent dentition is extensively studied. But, the same in deciduous dentition is not known, especially in Indians.

Methods

One hundred and twenty four intra oral periapical radiographs of subjects in the age range 6–12 years were retrospectively analysed for the presence of three roots in deciduous first and second molars.

Results

Seven subjects out of 124 exhibited three roots, making the prevalence of 5.6%. The mean age of subjects depicting three roots was 7.7 years. Four males and 3 females showed three roots. Five first molars and two second molars showed three roots.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the prevalence of three roots in deciduous molars. This cautions the clinicians that there are more chances of finding a third root when treating deciduous molars and also about the complications of not identifying the same.