Management of category IV C-shaped canal in mandibular second molar: A report of two cases

Root canal therapy aims to clean, shape and debride the entire pulp space followed by its three dimensional obturation with an inert root filling material. Anatomic variations can complicate the steps of identifying, negotiating and managing aberrant canals thereby affecting the prognosis of endodontic treatment. The C shaped configuration is one such variation that often poses a challenge in debridement and obturation. Recent advances in radiography, magnification, irrigation and obturation techniques aid effective management of C shaped root canals. This article presents the management of two cases with C shaped canals using CBCT imaging, ultrasonic irrigation and thermoplasticized obturation techniques.