Endodontic management of a maxillary second molar with five root canals: a case report

A maxillary second molar tooth with two palatal roots is an uncommon anomaly. In this case report, we describe non-surgical endodontic treatment of a maxillary second molar with two palatal roots. The second palatal root was discovered during preparation of the endodontic access cavity. Biomechanical preparation of all root canals was performed using nickel–titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments. Root canal obturation was performed with a root canal sealer and gutta-percha cones using the lateral compaction technique. The tooth was then restored with composite resin. It may be difficult to detect extra roots in the maxillary posterior region on radiographs because of superposition of various anatomic structures. A careful examination of the pulp chamber can aid in detecting extra canals that are not radiographically visible.