oldalcsatornás

Oldalcsatornás is a Hungarian adjective used in dentistry to describe a tooth whose root canal system contains lateral canals—small channels that branch from the main root canal toward the periodontal ligament. Lateral canals provide additional pathways for tissue fluids and bacteria and may connect with the main canal or with other canals along the root.

Anatomy and occurrence: Lateral canals occur in many teeth, most commonly in multirooted teeth such as molars and premolars. The number and size of these canals vary between individuals and tooth types. They are often difficult to detect with standard radiographs and are more reliably identified with advanced imaging or histological study. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) offer better visualization, but routine clinical detection remains challenging.

Clinical significance: The presence of lateral canals complicates endodontic treatment because bacteria and biofilms can reside in these channels beyond the reach of conventional cleaning and obturation. Endodontic strategies emphasize thorough irrigation, activation (for example, ultrasonic or sonic), and obturation techniques designed to seal both the main canals and the lateral branches, such as warm vertical compaction or sealers with good flow.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from Hungarian words for side (oldal) and canal (csatorna), with the suffix -s forming an adjective. It is used in Hungarian dental literature to describe teeth whose root canal systems include lateral canals. See also endodontics, root canal therapy, lateral canal.