The root canal anatomy in permanent dentition

Marco A. Versiani, Bettina Basrani, Manoel D. Sousa-Neto; 2019; Springer; price £151.98 pp. 425 ISBN: 9783319734439

Endodontic treatment can be challenging at the best of times, however, a sound understanding of root canal anatomy before treatment can help increase successful outcomes. This hardback provides the readers with a comprehensive understanding of the anatomy of the root canal system and its implications in treatment. The book was written with contribution from an international team of world-renowned researchers and clinicians, with expertise in the field. The intended audience being specialist endodontists, dentists with a special interest in endodontics and those clinicians undergoing specialist training.

The book is organised into four parts over 15 chapters. Each chapter is accompanied by an abstract, a relevant reference list at the end, and high-quality illustrations and images throughout. Part one comprises two chapters focused on the fundamentals of root canal anatomy. The next seven chapters make up part two, which focuses on root canal components and epidemiology. This includes: a new method of classifying root canal morphology (chapter four), CBCT and micro-CT analysis of root canals (chapter six), and an in-depth chapter on anatomy in mandibular and maxillary teeth. The high-quality images help the reader understand the true complexity of root canal anatomy. Part three, composed of four chapters, is centred around the influence of root canal anatomy in clinical practice. Chapters 10, 11 and 12 are based on canal instrumentation, irrigation and obturation, respectively. The final chapter of part three focuses on clinical cases and managing complex root canal anatomies. Part four, the appendix, comprises the final two chapters, contemporary teaching internal anatomy of teeth and the final chapter of 3D glossary of terminology in root canal anatomy.

I found this book very informative to read, the quality of radiographs, CBCT and micro-CT reconstructions highlighted the complex nature of endodontic treatment. The book is organised in a very structured manner and leads the reader logically through the topic. Part three allows the reader to appreciate how complex anatomy impacts clinical practice, while chapter 13 focuses on specific cases from contributing clinicians and technical aspects of successful treatment, which I found incredibly useful and insightful. Overall, a great book and an important read for those with an interest in endodontics.