MISSED CANAL AND IT'S MANAGEMENT

Successful endodontic treatment is based on the complete debridement, disinfection, and three-dimensional obturation of the entire root canal system. Failure to identify and treat every canal may leave infected tissue and microorganisms within the root canal space, resulting in persistent infection, post-treatment apical periodontitis, and eventual failure of root canal therapy. Among the numerous causes of endodontic failure, missed canals remain one of the most frequent and preventable factors. Despite significant advances in diagnostic imaging, magnification, instrumentation, and irrigation techniques, the complexity and variability of root canal anatomy continue to present considerable challenges to clinicians. Therefore, a thorough understanding of root canal morphology and its anatomical variations is fundamental for achieving predictable endodontic success.The present dissertation comprehensively reviews the anatomical basis, prevalence, clinical significance, prevention, and management of missed canals in permanent human dentition. It begins with an overview of the normal root canal system and discusses the various classification systems developed.