Objectives: This study performed a systematic review of anatomy prevalence studies using cone-beam computed tomography to comprehend the root and root canal configuration types in Brazilian sub-populations. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA’s statements. Four electronic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Lilacs, and Cochrane Collaboration) were accessed using MeSH terms and free-text keywords. The studies were selected according to predefined criteria. References of the collected studies, three peer-reviewed endodontic journals, and two peer-reviewed evidence-based dentistry journals were hand searched. The authors were contacted for additional information, if necessary. Eligible studies were submitted to a scientific merit assessment by two evaluators independently, who reached a final consensus for each study score using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool for prevalence studies. Results: A total of 2266 studies were identified. After analysis, 20 full-text articles were accessed for eligibility and 17 were included for qualitative synthesis. A high prevalence of mandibular incisors presenting two root canals was noted (~35.0% – 40.0). Moreover, a high proportion of two-rooted (17.0% – 28.4%) and two root canals (50.1% – 75.0%) morphologies were identified in maxillary second premolars. A wide range and a high percentage of a second mesiobuccal canal were detected for both maxillary first (37.1% – 88.5%) and second molars (21.8% – 83.4%). A second root canal prevalence ranging from 12.4% to 23.4% was observed in the distal root of mandibular first molars. Conclusions: In conclusion, different Brazilian sub-populations may present divergent characteristics regarding the root and root canal configurations. Clinicians should be aware of these variations for proper planning of endodontic treatment.
Second root and second root canal prevalence in maxillary first and second premolars assessed by cone beam computed tomography – a systematic review and meta-analysis