Background and  Aims: Successful endodontic treatment depends on a thorough understanding of the anatomical and morphological variations of teeth. The present study aimed to evaluate the root canal anatomy and morphology of mandibular second molars using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).
Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed CBCT images of 385 fully developed, untreated mandibular second molars taken for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes at a radiology center in Zahedan. The variables examined included: the number of roots and canals per root, root canal morphology according to Vertucci’s classification, and the prevalence of C-shaped canals. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 24, and the Pearson chi-square test was applied for statistical analysis (α = 0.05).
Result: Among the 385 mandibular second molars analyzed, most had two roots (80.3%) and three canals (66.5%). The most common morphology in the mesial root was Type II (47.1%), followed by Type IV (35.6%) and Type I (11.2%). The distal root predominantly exhibited Type I morphology (93.6%), followed by Type II (4.2%). C-shaped canal configuration was observed in 18.4% of the teeth. No statistically significant difference was found between males and females regarding the frequency of root number and C-shaped canals.
Conclusion: Given the relatively high prevalence of C-shaped canals, clinicians should exercise special attention in identifying and managing these configurations. CBCT imaging is a reliable tool for assessing dental morphology.