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Topic

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Root of upper molar tooth

The root of the upper molar tooth refers to the portion of the tooth embedded in the maxillary alveolar bone, anchoring the crown and enabling mastication. Upper molars typically have two or three roots: two buccal (mesiobuccal and distobuccal) and one palatal (lingual), though variations exist. Each root contains pulp canals housing nerves and blood vessels that supply the tooth. The roots are surrounded by periodontal ligament space and alveolar bone, which provide stability while allowing slight movement under occlusal forces. Anatomical variations in root number, curvature, and length are clinically significant for endodontic procedures, extractions, and implant planning.

Synonyms

  • Maxillary molar root

  • Upper molar root

  • Dental root of maxillary molar

  • Buccal and palatal roots of upper molar

Function

  • Anchors the tooth securely in the alveolar bone

  • Transmits occlusal forces during chewing to the jaw

  • Houses neurovascular structures within the pulp canals

  • Maintains tooth position and supports occlusion

MRI Appearance
T1-weighted images:

  • The root appears as a linear low-to-intermediate signal structure within hyperintense alveolar fat

  • Pulp canals may appear slightly hyperintense due to marrow and vascular content

  • Pathology such as pulpitis, periapical lesions, or root fractures may alter the signal intensity

T2-weighted images:

  • Root itself remains low signal, while inflamed pulp or periapical edema appears hyperintense

  • Surrounding alveolar bone marrow shows intermediate signal; cortical bone appears hypointense

STIR (Short Tau Inversion Recovery):

  • Fat suppression highlights edema or inflammatory changes

  • Normal root remains low signal; periapical infection, cysts, or abscesses appear bright hyperintense

CT Appearance

  • Root appears as a hyperdense, tapering structure embedded in alveolar bone

  • Surrounded by hypodense periodontal ligament space, which is normally thin and uniform

  • Buccal and palatal roots can be distinguished, as well as root curvature, number, and accessory canals

  • CT clearly shows periapical lesions, fractures, resorption, or proximity to maxillary sinus

  • Excellent for pre-surgical planning, implant placement, and evaluation of complex root anatomy

MRI images

Root of first upper molar tooth mri sagittal image -img-00000-00000