Single-rooted maxillary first molar with a single canal: endodontic retreatment

This case report presents an unusual root canal system in a maxillary first molar tooth: a single canal in a single root. The endodontic access cavity displayed only 1 canal orifice. This case demonstrated that: 1) clinicians must have adequate knowledge about root canal morphology and its variations; 2) the location and morphology of root canals should be identified radiologically before the root canal treatment; and 3) careful examination of radiographs and the internal anatomy of teeth is essential. (Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol Endod 2008; 106:e66-e68)