Estudio in vitro de la forma y distancia del foramen apical en premolares mandibulares de una población ecuatoriana durante 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Endodontic therapy focuses on the correct diagnosis and treatment of pulpal-periapical conditions, where knowledge of apical morphology is crucial for therapeutic success. It ensures the preservation of dental functionality and provides an optimal environment for the healing and repair of periapical tissues, especially in the apical third—an area critical for long-term dental preservation. Objective: To determine the distance of the apical foramen from the anatomical apex and its shape in mandibular premolars. Materials and Methods: An observational and descriptive study was conducted on 300 mandibular premolars. The samples were non-randomly selected and classified as First Mandibular Premolars (FMP) and Second Mandibular Premolars (SMP). The distance of the apical foramen was measured from both buccal and proximal views using a Vernier caliper and a digital microscope, which were also used to assess its shape. Results: The mean distance in FMP was 0.21 mm (buccal view) and 0.19 mm (proximal view). In SMP, the mean was 0.20 mm (buccal) and 0.19 mm (proximal), with no statistical significance. The most common shape of the apical foramen in both groups was round, with 44.74% and 38.64%, respectively. Conclusions: The distance between the anatomical apex and the apical foramen is more consistent in the buccal view. The most prevalent shape is round, facilitating adequate apical sealing in endodontic treatments.

Keywords: endodontics, apical foramen, mandibular premolars, root morphology, apical distance