Five root canals in a mandibular first molar

Abstract Endodontic therapy was performed in a mandibular first molar with 5 root canals, 3 of which were located in 3 distal roots. The existence of 3 distal root canals was assumed after careful reading of radiographs. Two of the distal root canals were close to one another and located buccally to the midline. The 3rd was remote, located lingually. The 2 mesial root canals were found in their normal locations. This case demonstrates a rare anatomical configuration, and joins with recent reports in the emphasis of the existence of such configurations in mandibular first molars.