Accuracy of Cone-beam Computed Tomography and Periapical Radiography in Apical Periodontitis Diagnosis

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the correlation and the agreement between periapical radiography (PR) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) correlating to histologic findings in the diagnosis of apical periodontitis (AP).

Methods

One hundred thirty-four premolar root canals from 10 dogs were treated after AP induction. Four months later, the animals were killed, and standard digital PRs were obtained. The area of AP was measured by using ImageJ software. CBCT (i-CAT) images from each arch were obtained, and AP area and volume were measured by using Osiri-X software. The apical inflammatory infiltrate was evaluated under light microscopy. The correlation between imaging methods was evaluated by using the Pearson coefficient. The Bland-Altman method was used to assess the agreement between PR and CBCT data. The Spearman coefficient was used to correlate the imaging data and histologic findings.

Results

Despite a strong correlation between PR and CBCT areas, the agreement limits were very broad (95% limits of agreement, 0.19–1.08). PR only measured, on average, 63% of CBCT values. Although there was a strong correlation between PR area and CBCT volume, the Bland-Altman method suggests that the larger the CBCT volume, the more underestimated the PR value. When APs had a volume smaller than 6 mm³, the PR estimation of CBCT data was unpredictable. A positive correlation was found for PR area, CBCT area, CBCT volume, and histology data.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of AP based on PR data is clinically limited, and it should not be used for scientific investigations.     

Is Panoramic Radiography an Accurate Imaging Technique for the Detection of Endodontically Treated Asymptomatic Apical Periodontitis?

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of panoramic radiography (PAN) for the detection of clinically/surgically confirmed apical periodontitis (AP) in root canal–treated teeth using cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging as the reference standard.

Prevalence and Size of Periapical Radiolucencies Using Cone-beam Computed Tomography in Teeth without Apparent Intraoral Radiographic Lesions: A New Periapical Index with a Clinical Recommendation

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and size of periapical radiolucencies using cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging in teeth without apparent signs of intraoral radiographic lesions.

Endodontic Microbial Communities in Apical Periodontitis

IntroductionApical periodontitis (AP) represents an inflammatory condition of peri-radicular tissues due to invasion and colonization of bacteria in the root canals. Primary apical periodontitis (PAP) is associated with untreated necrotic root canal and can be efficiently treated with endodontic treatment to remove bacteria. Persistent/secondary apical periodontitis (SAP) is a perpetual periapical lesion due to unsuccessfully treated root canals after an initial apparent healing of the tooth. The aim of the study was evaluating the microbial communities associated with root canals using Nanopore sequencing.MethodsSeventeen samples from the root canals of 15 patients with AP were Polymerase Chain Reaction-amplified for 16s ribosomal DNA gene and sequenced. Information regarding the presence or absence of AP symptoms, PAP and SAP, and periapical index of patients were recorded.ResultsFirmicutes, Bacteroidetes, and Actinobacteria were the most abundant phyla detected and Phocaeicola, Pseudomonas, Rothia, and Prevotella were the most prominent genera. In samples of patients with AP symptoms, the most frequent detected genera were Cutibacterium, Lactobacillus, Pseudomonas, Dialister, Prevotella, and Staphylococcus. In PAP samples, the most represented genera were Cutibacterium, Lactobacillus, Pseudomonas, and Prevotella, whilst in SAP cases were Cutibacterium, Prevotella, Atopobium, Capnocytophaga, Fusobacterium, Pseudomonas, Solobacterium, and Streptococcus.ConclusionsThe results provide additional information on the microbiota of root-canals. These data evidence the complexity of the microbiota and the relationship with many clinical and endodontic conditions. Future studies must evaluate these conditions and identify their role in inducing bone damage and local and systemic disease, aiming to better elucidate the relationship between microbes and endodontic pathologies.     

Ex Vivo Detection of Apical Delta in Premolars: A Comparative Study Using Periapical Radiography,Cone-beam Computed Tomography,and Micro–computed Tomography

Introduction

Imaging methods are essential for the correct identification of root canal anatomy, which is a key factor for successful endodontic therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of periapical radiography (PR) and cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging in identifying the apical delta (AD) using micro-computed tomographic imaging as the gold standard.

Clinical Factors Associated with Apical Periodontitis Visible on Cone-beam Computed Tomography but Missed with Periapical Radiographs: A Retrospective Clinical Study

IntroductionCone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging is useful in detecting apical periodontitis, which is often missed in periapical (PA) radiographs. This study aimed to identify preoperative predictors correlated with the presence of apical periodontitis visible only in CBCT images and to investigate the important characteristics of such lesions.MethodsIn total, 332 consecutive patients with both PA radiographs and CBCT images were enrolled in this study. The patients’ clinical charts were reviewed retrospectively to collect information regarding their symptoms and diagnoses. Periapical lesions were assessed using a modified CBCT PA index by 2 endodontists. Patient-related factors (age, sex, and symptoms) and tooth-related factors (tooth type, location, pulp status, and pulpal diagnosis) were assessed to determine their relationships with the presence of apical periodontitis visible only in CBCT images.ResultsApical periodontitis was detected in 24.6% and 35.5% of untreated teeth by PA radiographs and CBCT images, respectively. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, pulp necrosis was significantly correlated with the presence of apical periodontitis visible only in CBCT images (odds ratio = 5.401; 95% confidence interval, 1.911–15.265; P = .001); the involvement of molars showed borderline nonsignificant correlation (odds ratio = 2.843; 95% confidence interval, 0.990–8.164; P = .052). Lesion sizes smaller than 2 mm in diameter and the involvement of molars were significant factors of lesions visible only in CBCT images (P < .05).ConclusionsPulp necrosis was a preoperative predictor of apical periodontitis visible only in CBCT images. This research could provide a proper indication for CBCT imaging at diagnostic stages.     

The Impact of Different Diagnostic Imaging Modalities on the Evaluation of Root Canal Anatomy and Endodontic Residents' Stress Levels: A Clinical Study

Introduction

The purpose of this study was firstly to compare the impact of radiographs, cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging, and 3D Endo software (Dentsply Sirona, Ballaigues, Switzerland) on the assessment of root canal anatomy and radiographic quality of endodontic treatment and secondly to assess stress levels in the same cohort of residents performing endodontic treatment.

Endothelial Dysfunction Marker Variation in Young Adults with Chronic Apical Periodontitis before and after Endodontic Treatment

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Apical periodontitis (AP) has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. A correlation has been shown between chronic AP and endothelial dysfunction (ED), but there is no evidence to indicate ED improves after endodontic treatment in patients with periapical lesions. The aim of this study was to investigate vascular and molecular markers of early ED before and after root canal treatment in young adults with chronic AP.

Frequency and Risk Factors of Maxillary Sinusitis of Endodontic Origin Evaluated by a Dynamic Navigation and a New Filter of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to determine the frequency and risk factors of maxillary sinusitis of endodontic origin (MSEO) on posterior maxillary teeth evaluated using dynamic navigation and a novel filter of cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging.MethodsCBCT scans of 453 patients (814 teeth) were selected. Data were divided into 4 groups: (1) root canal treatment (RCT), (2) relation of the root apex to the maxillary sinus, (3) apical periodontitis (AP), and (4) maxillary sinus inflammation (no inflammation, periapical osteoperiostitis, periapical mucositis, partial obstruction, or total obstruction). Frequency distribution and cross-tabulation were used for data analysis. The association of maxillary sinus abnormalities with other variables was analyzed using the chi-square test. The significance level was set at 5%, and the association between dependent and independent variables was analyzed using robust Poisson regression models.ResultsMSEO was found in 65.6% of the cases, and the highest frequency rates were in the periapical mucositis (44%) and partial obstruction (15.8%) groups. The rates of risk factors were highest in the cases of RCT (54.9%), AP (34.3%), and the root apex in contact with the maxillary sinus (53.8%). The most frequent sex and age group were female (55.8%) and 41–50 years (30.5%).ConclusionsThe frequency of MSEO was high and positively associated with RCT, AP, and the root apex’s position in contact with the floor of the maxillary sinus. The maxillary sinus filter of the CBCT software provides a clear image of maxillary sinus abnormalities.     

Interexaminer Agreement in the Radiologic Identification of Apical Periodontitis/Rarefying Osteitis in the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network PREDICT Endodontic Study

IntroductionPeriapical images are routinely made in endodontics to support diagnosis and treatment decisions, but conventional imaging may not readily demonstrate inflammatory changes. This study aims to quantify disagreement in the radiologic interpretation of apical periodontitis/rarefying osteitis between 2 expert examiners and to determine if differences exist based on anatomic location.MethodsWe used 1717 pretreatment periapical images made before orthograde endodontic treatment as part of the Predicting Outcomes of Root Canal Treatment (PREDICT) study conducted within the National Dental Practice-Based Research Network. Periapical changes were assessed independently by 2 board-certified specialists, an oral and maxillofacial radiologist and an endodontist, blinded to other clinical information. If the examiners disagreed about whether a diagnosis of apical periodontitis/rarefying osteitis was justified, an adjudication was made by a third examiner.ResultsThe overall prevalence of this radiologic diagnosis in the periapical images was 55%, and interexaminer agreement measured with the Cohen kappa statistic was calculated to be 0.56 (95% confidence interval, 0.52–0.60). Diagnostic disagreements between the 2 examiners occurred for 377 teeth (22%), with disagreements more frequent for jaw location (P = .038) and tooth type (P = .021). Differences between root number (P = .058) and jaw location and tooth groups (P = .069) were found not to be statistically significant.ConclusionsThe variability of diagnostic disagreements across anatomic location and tooth type may reflect the inability of periapical images to reveal bone changes masked by the complexity and density of overlying anatomic structures, a limitation that could potentially be overcome with the use of 3-dimensional imaging.     

A Novel Method to Estimate the Volume of Bone Defects Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: An In Vitro Study

Introduction

The routine use of high-resolution images derived from 3-dimensional cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) datasets enables the linear measurement of lesions in the maxillary and mandibular bones on 3 planes of space. Measurements on different planes would make it possible to obtain real volumetric assessments. In this study, we tested, in vitro, the accuracy and reliability of new dedicated software developed for volumetric lesion assessment in clinical endodontics.

Methods

Twenty-seven bone defects were created around the apices of 8 teeth in 1 young bovine mandible to simulate periapical lesions of different sizes and shapes. The volume of each defect was determined by taking an impression of the defect using a silicone material. The samples were scanned using an Accuitomo 170 CBCT (J. Morita Mfg Co, Kyoto, Japan), and the data were uploaded into a newly developed dedicated software tool. Two endodontists acted as independent and calibrated observers. They analyzed each bone defect for volume. The difference between the direct volumetric measurements and the measurements obtained with the CBCT images was statistically assessed using a lack-of-fit test. A correlation study was undertaken using the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient. Intra- and interobserver agreement was also evaluated.

Results

The results showed a good fit and strong correlation between both volume measurements (ρ > 0.9) with excellent inter- and intraobserver agreement.

Conclusions

Using this software, CBCT proved to be a reliable method in vitro for the estimation of endodontic lesion volumes in bovine jaws. Therefore, it may constitute a new, validated technique for the accurate evaluation and follow-up of apical periodontitis.     

CBCT和根尖放射线片诊断根尖周炎的对比性研究

目的：比较应用CBCT和根尖放射线片对慢性根尖周炎的严重程度及病变范围进行评估的差异性,评价CBCT在慢性根尖周病变的诊断、治疗方案的确定及预后等方面的临床价值。方法：选取临床上有根尖周炎症状的53例患者（96颗牙）,均拍摄根尖放射线片和CBCT,分别由2位专家采用单盲法进行放射线影像学诊断,比较两种影像学方法对根尖周炎的存在及病变范围评估的差异性。结果：根尖放射线片发现82.3%,CBCT发现100%的患牙存在根尖周病变。并且在两者都诊断出根尖炎时,CBCT的PAI值明显高于根尖片。结论：在诊断慢性根尖周炎方面,CBCT扫描与根尖放射线片相比具有更高的敏感性和精确度。和根尖放射线片比较,CBCT对临床上根尖周炎的诊断、严重程度及预后判断都更有优势,从而能够更好的指导临床治疗。     

8-Year Follow-up of Central Giant Cell Lesion Mimicking Apical Periodontitis

Introduction

Lesions of nonendodontic origin may mimic apical periodontitis. Central giant cell lesions (CGCLs) are aggressive or nonaggressive benign idiopathic intraosseous lesions of the jaw. This report describes a case of a CGCL in the periapical region of teeth #21–#26 of a 17-year-old female who sought orthodontic care because of a change in the position of tooth #23.

Methods

Clinical examination revealed mild facial asymmetry caused by increased volume in the mental region and cortical bone expansion but no cortical disruption. A panoramic radiograph showed a well-defined radiolucent osteolytic lesion involving teeth #21–#26. The cortical bone was not affected, and there was no root resorption. Incisional biopsy was performed, and the diagnosis was a CGCL. The lesion was enucleated surgically. CGCLs should be included in the differential diagnosis of jaw lesions that mimic apical periodontitis.

Results

The patient subsequently underwent orthodontic treatment successfully.

Conclusions

The 8-year clinical and radiographic follow-up confirmed lesion remission, no recurrence, and pulp vitality of all teeth.     

A Survey of Patients' Preferences for the Treatment of Teeth with Apical Periodontitis

Introduction

This research aimed to investigate the preference of patients in Toronto, Canada for management of a tooth affected by painful apical periodontitis when considering its retention via root canal treatment (RCT) and its extraction followed by no replacement, replacement with an implant-supported crown, fixed, or removable partial prostheses.

Methods

Data were collected through a mail-out survey of the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry patients, which was complemented by a convenience sample of patients in 10 community practices in Toronto (n = 1000, response rate = 43%). Participants were asked to select their general preference for anterior and posterior teeth with apical periodontitis between saving the tooth or extraction and their specific preference for tooth retention via RCT or extraction. By using bivariate and logistic regression analyses, we applied the Gelberg-Andersen Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations to the preference questions to understand the influential factors (P ≤ .05).

Results

Participants' specific preference for tooth retention via RCT was slightly but significantly lower than their general preference (anterior tooth, 93.7% versus 97.2%; posterior tooth, 83.8% versus 89.6%; P < .005). Higher annual income, previous RCT, functional dentition, good/excellent self-rated oral health, and regular dental visits were associated with higher preferences for tooth retention in response to different questions.

Conclusions

The high preference for retaining a tooth in general was moderated by the specific consideration of RCT to retain the tooth. When RCT and extraction are viable options, patients should be advised about the treatment options in an impartial manner and encouraged to communicate their preferences.     

Nonendodontic Lesions Misdiagnosed as Apical Periodontitis Lesions: Series of Case Reports and Review of Literature

Introduction

This study aimed to analyze cases referred from a reference service in oral pathology that were initially misdiagnosed as periapical lesions of endodontic origin and to perform a review of the literature regarding lesions located in the apical area of teeth with a nonendodontic source.

Methods

A survey was made of clinical cases derived from the service of oral pathology from 2002 to 2012. The pertinent literature was also reviewed using ScienceDirect and PubMed databases. The lesions were grouped into benign lesions mimicking endodontic periapical lesions (BLMEPLs), malignant lesions mimicking endodontic periapical lesions (MLMEPLs), and Stafne bone cavities. The clinical presentations were divided into lesions with swelling without pain, lesions with swelling and pain, and lesions without swelling but presenting with pain.

Results

The results showed that 66% (37/56) of cases represented benign lesions, 29% (16/56) malignant lesions, and 5% (3/56) Stafne bone cavities. The most commonly reported BLMEPLs were ameloblastomas (21%) followed by nasopalatine duct cysts (13.5%). The most frequently cited MLMEPLs were metastatic injuries (31.5%) followed by carcinomas (25%). The main clinical presentation of BLMEPLs was pain, whereas that of MLMEPLs was swelling associated with pain; Stafne bone cavities displayed particular clinical findings.

Conclusions

Clinical and radiologic aspects as well as the analysis of the patients' medical history, pulp vitality tests, and aspiration are essential tools for developing a correct diagnosis of periapical lesions of endodontic origin. However, if the instruments mentioned earlier indicate a lesion of nonendodontic origin, a biopsy and subsequent histopathological analysis are mandatory.     

Healing of Apical Periodontitis after Nonsurgical Treatment in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Introduction

The purpose of this prospective study was to compare the success of primary root canal treatment between type 2 diabetic and nondiabetic patients and to investigate the effect of periapical healing on glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in type 2 diabetic patients with apical periodontitis.

Evaluation of odontogenic maxillary sinusitis using cone-beam computed tomography: three case reports

Introduction

Ten to twelve percent of all cases of maxillary sinusitis derive from odontogenic origin. The purpose of this study was to report the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanning in elucidating dental pathology as an etiology of maxillary sinusitis.

Methods

Intraoral periapical radiographs and CBCT scanning were performed in the evaluation of three patients presenting with pain, sinus congestion, or respiratory complaints. In the first case, extractions of impacted third molar and adjacent nonrestorable tooth were performed. In the second two cases, endodontic therapy was done. Radiologic follow-up with CBCT scanning or medical computed tomography scanning was performed 6 to 12 months after dental procedures were performed.

Results

All three patients presented with severe sinusitis that resolved after appropriate dental treatment. The first patient also showed marked improvement of chronic bronchitis after completion of dental treatment. In all patients, complete or near total resolution of sinusitis, including eradication of mucous retention cyst, was confirmed by post-treatment CBCT or computed tomography scanning.

Conclusions

These cases show the utility of CBCT scanning in evaluating patients presenting with concurrent sinus and dental complaints. In these three patients, maxillary sinusitis of odontogenic origin responded well to the eradication of dental etiology.     

Evaluating the Periapical Status of Teeth with Irreversible Pulpitis by Using Cone-beam Computed Tomography Scanning and Periapical Radiographs

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of apical periodontitis (AP) on individual roots of teeth with irreversible pulpitis viewed with periapical (PA) radiographs and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.

Methods

PA radiographs and CBCT scans were taken of 138 teeth in 130 patients diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis (symptomatic and asymptomatic). Two calibrated examiners assessed the presence or absence of AP lesions by analyzing the PA and CBCT images. A consensus was reached in the event of any disagreement. The data were analyzed using the hypothesis test, and significance was set at P ≤ .05.

Results

Three hundred seven paired roots were assessed with both PA and CBCT images. A comparison of the 307 paired roots revealed that AP lesions were present in 10 (3.3%) and absent in 297 (96.7%) pairs of roots when assessed with PA radiography. When the same 307 sets of roots were assessed with CBCT scans, AP lesions were present in 42 (13.7%) and absent in 265 (86.3%) paired roots. The prevalence of AP lesions detected with CBCT was significantly higher in the symptomatic group compared with the asymptomatic group (P < .05). An additional 22 roots were identified with CBCT alone.

Conclusions

The present study highlights the advantages of using CBCT for detecting AP lesions, especially in teeth with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.     

Effect of Apical Third Enlargement to Different Preparation Sizes and Tapers on Postoperative Pain and Outcome of Primary Endodontic Treatment: A Prospective Randomized Clinical Trial

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of apical preparation size and taper on postoperative pain and healing after primary endodontic treatment.MethodsOne hundred and twenty patients with asymptomatic mandibular first molars with radiographic evidence of periapical pathology and with a periapical index (PAI) score ≥3 were randomly assigned to 2 groups, group 1 and 2, based on apical enlargement to 2 and 3 sizes larger than the initial apical binding file (IABF), respectively. Each group was further divided into subgroups A and B depending on the apical enlargement taper of 4% and 6%, respectively. Endodontic treatment was performed, and the final apical enlargement in all the groups was performed as follows: group 1A, 2 sizes larger than the IABF with a 4% taper; group 1B, 2 sizes larger than the IABF with a 6% taper; group 2A, 3 sizes larger than the IABF with a 4% taper; and group 2B, 3 sizes larger than the IABF with a 6% taper. Postoperative pain was assessed at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. Clinical evaluation and the change in the PAI score on radiographs were assessed at the 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-ups.ResultsNo significant difference in postoperative pain was found. The success rate was lowest (57.1%) in group 1 subgroup A as evidenced by the significant change in the PAI score between group 1 subgroup A and the rest of the groups at the 6- and 12-month follow-ups.ConclusionsApical preparation to 2 sizes larger than the IABF with a 4% taper is insufficient and results in significantly lower success rates compared with larger preparation sizes and tapers.