Maxillary First Premolar with Three Canals: An Endodontic Challenge

A thorough knowledge about the normal and abnormal variation of anatomy of the teeth and their detection is essential for clinical success. Maxillary first premolars show a considerable variation in root canal morphology but the presence of three roots is rare. The maxillary first premolar is the most commonly bi- rooted tooth with occasional presentation of three roots system, it is a transitional tooth between incisors and molars. Although it usually has two canals, it may rarely have three and this third canal can easily be missed. However, it must be taken considered radiographically and clinically during endodontic treatment. This article describes the diagnosis and clinical management of two cases of maxillary first premolar with three separate roots and three root canals with special reference to radiographic interpretation, dental operative microscope and diagnosis.