National Dental Assisting Examining Board (NDAEB) Practice Exam

When performing endodontic treatment on a maxillary first premolar, how many canals may be involved?

1. One

2. Two

3. Three

4. Four

The correct answer is: Two

In endodontic treatment of a maxillary first premolar, it is quite common for the tooth to have two canals. The anatomy of the maxillary first premolar usually consists of a buccal and a palatal canal. While some maxillary first premolars might present with only a single canal, the typical anatomical configuration includes two distinct canals. Endodontic success relies heavily on the thorough cleaning, shaping, and obturation of all existing canals. Understanding that a maxillary first premolar generally has two canals is crucial for dental professionals during treatment planning and execution. Recognizing this anatomical feature helps ensure that all necessary canals are adequately treated, thus reducing the risk of subsequent infection or treatment failure.