C-Shaped Canal — NDEB AFK MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Mandibular second molar
The mandibular second molar is the tooth most commonly presenting with a C-shaped root canal system (prevalence up to 30-45% in East Asian populations). The C-shape results from failure of fusion of Hertwig epithelial root sheath on the lingual or buccal aspect, creating a continuous ribbon-shaped canal with a C-shaped cross-section. C-shaped canals are challenging to clean, shape, and obturate due to their complex anatomy and thin isthmus connections.
Reference: Torabinejad – Endodontics: Principles and Practice, 6th ed., 2021