Cone-beam computed tomographic evaluation of root canal morphology of mandibular anterior teeth in a Saudi subpopulation,retrospective In-Vivo study

BackgroundThere is variability in the results of dental morphological studies between different ethnic populations. This study aimed to investigate the root canal morphology of mandibular anterior teeth in a Saudi subpopulation in the Riyadh region.MethodsWe examined a total of 1,769 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of the mandibular anterior teeth, including the central incisors (n = 587), lateral incisors (n = 590), and canines (n = 592). The number and configuration of the root canals were determined. Fisher's exact and Pearson’s chi-square tests were used to assess the differences between sexes and age groups, with a level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsOverall, Type I canal was the most frequent configuration among the mandibular anterior teeth (76.1%). However, the prevalence of Type III canal configuration in the central and lateral incisors was 36.5% and 31%, respectively. Additionally, the mandibular canines were mainly Type I canals (98.4%). The prevalence of canal configuration was predominantly Type I (95.7%), followed by Type III (2.7%), Type IV (0.4%), and Type V (1.2%). There was a statistically significant difference in the canal configurations between men and women (p = 0.02). Females more often had Type I root canals (60.6%), while Type III was more frequent in males (57.2%). However, there were no statistically significant differences between the age groups in canal configuration.ConclusionThe mandibular anterior teeth of the Saudi subpopulation had mainly one root canal. However, almost one-third of the central and lateral incisors had two canals. CBCT is a useful tool that can be used, if available, to investigate root canal morphology before root canal treatment.     

Vertucci’s Root Canal Configuration of 14,413 Mandibular Anterior Teeth in a Brazilian Population: A Prevalence Study Using Cone-beam Computed Tomography

IntroductionThis cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT)-based study evaluated the root canal configurations of mandibular anterior teeth in a large Brazilian population, along with the influence of sex and the frequency of symmetry between the contralateral teeth.MethodsOverall, 2543 CBCT scans, including those of 4773 lower central incisors (LCIs), 4835 lower lateral incisors (LLIs), and 4805 lower canines (LCs), were analyzed. The scans were obtained from a private radiologic clinic using the PreXion 3D device (Yoshida Dental Mfg Co, Ltd, Tokyo, Japan) with a 0.14-mm voxel size; exposure parameters of 90 kV, 4 mA, and 19 seconds; and a field of view of 80 × 80 mm. Root canal anatomy was analyzed according to the Vertucci classification. Sex influence on the canal distribution and symmetry between the contralateral teeth were analyzed. The data were analyzed statistically and were considered significant when P < .05.ResultsAll LCIs and LLIs had 1 root, whereas 2.4% of LCs had 2 roots. Two root canals were observed in approximately 20% of LCIs and LLIs and in approximately 11% of LCs. The most common configuration was type I followed by type III. Bilateral symmetry occurred in a majority of the individuals (ie, 91% in LCIs, 87% in LLIs, and 87% in LCs). No sex influence was noted with LLIs and LCs (P > .05). However, LCIs showed a higher prevalence of 2 canals in men (P < .05).ConclusionsThe prevalence of 2 root canals in the mandibular anterior teeth in Brazilians was approximately 20% for central and lateral incisors and 10% for canines.     

运用锥束CT对恒前牙根管变异的分析

目的采用锥束CT扫描所得图像数据,统计和分析前牙根管的变异。方法收集600例患者7200颗前牙图像数据,运用NNT软件,在冠状面、矢状面和横断面进行观察,统计和分析根管的数目、形态变异,根管类型,牙根数及两侧根管变异的对称性。结果 1根管数目：上颌前牙均为单根管,未见到根管变异;下颌前牙中330颗牙出现变异根管,为9.16%;2根管类型：上颌前牙均为Ⅰ型,下颌前牙Ⅰ型90.84%,Ⅱ型0.83%,Ⅲ型6.67%,Ⅳ型1.33%,Ⅴ型0.33%;3根管变异的对称性：上颌前牙不存在变异根管对称;下颌前牙两侧变异根管对称率：中切牙69.2%;侧切牙86.1%;尖牙66.7%;4牙根数：前牙除2例下颌尖牙为双根外,余均为单根。结论上颌前牙未见根管和牙根的变异;下颌前牙根管形态较复杂,根管变异率为9.16%,CBCT可准确发现根管变异。     

Cone-beam Computed Tomographic Scans in Comparison with Periapical Radiographs for Root Canal Length Measurement: An In Situ Study

Introduction

The primary aim of this study was to compare the precision of root canal length determination on cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans and periapical radiographs (PAs) with the actual root canal length. The secondary aim was to examine the influence of tooth type on root canal length measurements as assessed on CBCT scans and PAs.

Methods

In total, 40 root canals of 33 teeth (molars, premolars, canines, and incisors) out of 5 dentate maxillas of human cadavers were included. Root canal length measurement was performed by a consensus panel (2 examiners) on CBCT scans (3D Accuitomo 170; J Morita, Kyoto, Japan) and digital PAs. After straight-line access opening, a #15 file was fixated in every root canal at the length measured on CBCT scans. All teeth were extracted, and the root canal containing the file was uncovered. Measurements made on images taken with a digital camera (AxioCam; Carl Zeiss, Sliedrecht, The Netherlands) linked to a stereozoom microscope (Stemi SV6, Carl Zeiss) were used as the actual root canal length.

Results

When all roots were examined together, it was not clear which method is better for all types of teeth. For root canals of anterior teeth, there was no significant difference between the 2 methods. For root canals of posterior teeth, CBCT images gave results significantly closer to the actual root canal length in comparison with PAs (t value = −1.96; critical value is 1.74 with a significance level of 0.05).

Conclusions

Root canal length measurements of posterior maxillary teeth were more accurate when assessed by CBCT images than PAs.     

CBCT study of root and canal morphology of permanent mandibular incisors in a Chinese population

Objective. To evaluate root canal morphology of permanent mandibular incisor teeth in a Chinese population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and methods. CBCT images of Chinese patients were collected and 1553 permanent mandibular incisors in the images were included. The following observations on the included teeth were to determine the number of roots, root morphology and canal configuration. The root canal configurations were classified. The effect of gender on the incidence of the second canal was investigated. Results. Of permanent mandibular incisors, 86.8% had a single root with single canal. Mandibular lateral incisors (17.5%) had a higher incidence of a second canal compared with mandibular central incisors (8.9%) (p = 0.000). A slightly higher percentage of incidence of a second canal was found in males (14.6%) than in females (11.9%) (p = 0.129). Conclusions. Permanent mandibular incisors with two canals had a relatively low incidence in this Chinese population. The incidence of a second canal did not differ between males and females. CBCT is a valuable aid during root canal treatment.     

Root and root canal morphology of permanent mandibular first and second molars in a Kuwaiti population: A retrospective cone-beam computed tomography study

AimEndodontic diseases typically affect the mandibular molars. Understanding the complex morphology of the root canal system and its variations is necessary for successful endodontic treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphology of roots and root canals of mandibular first and second permanent molar teeth in a Kuwaiti population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).Materials and methodsCBCT images of 651 mandibular first and second molar teeth were obtained from specialist government dental centers. The age, sex, root canal configuration, and number and type of roots were recorded. The data were statistically analyzed.ResultsThe most common canal configuration in the mandibular first and second molars was type II (65.6% and 54.4%, respectively), with no significant difference seen between the sexes (p = 0.234). The canal configuration was significantly different between the mandibular first and second molars (p < 0.001). Most teeth had two roots (94.5%); split roots were common (92.6%) and the number thereof varied significantly. Radicular grooves were most common on the lingual side (4.9%). C-shaped canals were present in 43 (6.60%) teeth. Additionally, one tooth had a confluent middle mesial canal and nine (1.4%) had radix entomolaris.ConclusionMandibular molars in our Kuwaiti population typically had two split roots with type II and IV canal configurations. The prevalence rates of C-shaped canals, middle mesial canals, and radix entomolaris were remarkably low.     

基于锥形束CT对下颌前牙根管系统构型的初步研究分析

目的:应用锥形束CT研究海口地区下颌前牙的根管形态,为牙体牙髓病治疗提供参考依据。方法:选取海南口腔医院影像科CBCT影像资料库中男性、女性各300例,按年龄分6组:12~20、21~30、31~40、41~50、51~60、61~70岁,每组男、女各50例。采用配套软件处理,根据Vertucci分类法观察下颌前牙根管系统的构型。结果:下颌中切牙、侧切牙和尖牙的多根管率分别为11.75%、23.5%和10.41%,下前牙的多根管发生率有统计学差异(P<0.05)。不同年龄组,下颌中切牙,侧切牙多根管发生率,有显著性统计学差异(P<0.001),下颌尖牙多根管发生率无统计学差异(P>0.05)。下前牙多根管时,其根管分叉至解剖性根尖的距离,下颌中切牙为(8.56±2.08)mm,下颌侧切牙为(9.43±1.93)mm,下颌尖牙为(10.60±2.01)mm。不同牙位之间比较,该距离均有统计学差异(P<0.05)。性别间比较,仅下颌中切牙根管分叉至解剖性根尖的距离有统计学差异(P=0.020,P<0.05)。不同年龄组间比较,下颌侧切牙和下颌尖牙的根管分叉至解剖性根尖的距离有统计学差异(P=0.004,P=0.04,P<0.05)。结论:下颌前牙单根多管发生率在10.41%~23.5%区间、多根管发生率和年龄相关性密切。     

Morphological variations of mandibular first premolar on cone-beam computed tomography in a Saudi Arabian sub-population

In-depth knowledge of common and aberrant pulp morphology is essential for appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning prior to commencing root canal treatment. Radicular morphology of mandibular premolars has been extensively studied. Considerable variation in the number of canals and roots found in these teeth has been reported.AimThe purpose of this study is to investigate the root and root canal morphology of mandibular first premolar among Saudi Arabian subpopulation in Aseer using CBCT.MethodsCone-beam computed tomography images of Mandibular first premolar were taken from 166 patients which were referred to Armed Forces Hospitals Southern Region (AFHSR), Khamis Mushayt, Asir region Saudi Arabia. All the images were assessed by two Evaluators (An Endodontist and a Radiologist). Inter-examiner reliability was determined and was assessed by KAPPA value.ResultsThe mandibular first premolar (n = 216) distributed as 120 teeth in female and 96 teeth in male. Out of the 120 teeth examined in female groups one canal was seen in 95 (79.2%) teeth, two canals in 19 (15.8%) teeth and three canals in 6 (5%) teeth where as in the Male group out of 96 teeth, 52 (54.1%) teeth showed one canal, 32 (33.3%) teeth with two canals whereas 12 (12.5%) teeth showed presence of three canals.Chi-Square test for mandibular first premolars demonstrated the chance of second canal in the mandibular first premolar more in male than female and these differences was statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05).ConclusionEndodontic therapy of mandibular premolars is a challenge for clinician because of their frequent morphological and anatomical abnormalities. Proper knowledge about number of root canals and canal configuration is a key to success in Endodontic. There is a great variability in different population regarding the root canal configuration in mandibular pre-molars. However, most studies state the mandibular first premolar has one root canal. Also, the most prevalent type of root canal found was Type I vertucci.     

Use of Cone-beam Computed Tomography to Evaluate Root Canal Morphology and Locate Root Canal Orifices of Maxillary Second Premolars in a Chinese Subpopulation

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate root canal morphology and locate root canal orifices of maxillary second premolars in a Chinese subpopulation using cone-beam computed tomographic imaging.

Methods

A total of 392 cone-beam computed tomographic images of maxillary second premolars were obtained from 238 patients who required a preoperative assessment for implant surgery or orthodontic treatment. The number of roots and root canals and root canal configuration were investigated and categorized using Vertucci's criteria. The distance between the root canal orifice and the anatomic apex and the distance between root canal orifices in those teeth with 2 root canals were measured and evaluated. The Fisher exact test was used to analyze the correlation between the number of roots and sex.

Results

Among the 392 teeth, 86.5% (n = 339) had 1 root; 45.4% (n = 178) of the teeth had 1 root canal, and 54.3% (n = 213) had 2 root canals that ranged from type II–type V. The majority of teeth with 2 root canals showed a type IV canal configuration (n = 79, 20.2%) followed by type II (n = 64, 16.3%), type III (n = 45, 11.4%), and type V (n = 25, 6.4%). Only 1 tooth had 3 root canals. No significant difference was found between the number of roots and sex (P > .05). Among the 213 teeth with 2 root canals, the most frequent distribution of the distance between the root canal orifice and the anatomic apex was 5–10 mm (n = 157). The distance between the 2 orifices of 189 teeth was 1–4 mm.

Conclusions

The frequency of teeth with 2 root canals was high in maxillary second premolars. The internal morphology of teeth with 2 root canals was variable. This study provided useful information about the root canal morphology of maxillary second premolars in a Chinese subpopulation.     

A cone-beam computed tomography study of root canal morphology of maxillary and mandibular premolars in a Turkish population

Aim. The aim of this study was to evaluate the root canal number and configuration of maxillary and mandibular premolar teeth by gender, intervals for decades, tooth position and unilateral or bilateral occurrence in a Turkish population using Cone Beam Computed Tomography(CBCT) scanning. Methodology. CBCT images of 5496 maxillary and mandibular premolars from 849 patients were evaluated. The following was evaluated in all the images: numbers of roots and root canals, the morphology of the root canal configuration according to the Vertucci classification, male–female differences in the tooth position and male–female differences in unilateral or bilateral occurrence. The reliability data were analyzed with a chi-square test. Results. The most prevalent root canal frequency was the two canals (86.2%) and type IV (76.9%) configuration for maxillary first premolar, one canal (59.7%) and type I (54.5%) canal configuration for second premolar. The incidence of one canal was higher in females and the occurrence of two or three canals was more common in males. The incidence of one canal was higher on the left side of maxillary premolars and the incidence of two canals was higher on the right side. Most mandibular first (93.5%) and second (98.5%) premolars had one canal. In general, females had one root canal of the mandibular premolar, whereas males had two or three canals. The type I configuration was most common and the incidence was higher on the right side. There were some differences found in the frequency distribution of the number of root canals and configuration of maxillary and mandibular premolar teeth according to intervals for decades. Conclusion. CBCT scanning provides comprehensive information about the root canal morphology of maxillary and mandibular premolar teeth. These data may help clinicians in root canal treatment of premolar teeth.     

Root Canal Shape of Human Permanent Teeth Determined by New Cone-Beam Computed Tomographic Software

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to determine root canal cross-sectional shapes (RCCSSs) of human permanent teeth using new cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) software.MethodsRCCSS was determined on CBCT scans of 1400 teeth (422 patients) as follows:(1) circular,(2) conical/pyramidal,(3) oval/long oval,(4) flat/ribbonlike,(5) 8 shaped,(6) C shaped,(7) calcified,(8) trapezoidal,(9) drop shaped, and(10) other shapes. Root canal shapes were evaluated in the coronal and middle thirds, 2 mm below their beginning, and in the apical third, 1 and 2 mm short of the apical foramen. Categoric variables were described as frequencies and percentages and analyzed using the chi-square test. The level of significance was set at P = .05.ResultsMaxillary anterior teeth and maxillary first and second premolars had a circular RCCSS at 1 and 2 mm from the apical foramen in more than 45% of the cases. The most frequent RCCSS in the buccal canal of maxillary first premolars at 1 mm from the apical foramen was circular (71%) followed by flat/ribbonlike (10%) and oval/long oval (6%). In mesiobuccal roots of maxillary and mandibular first molars at 1 mm from the apical foramen, the circular shape was found in 52% and 49%, respectively.ConclusionsThe RCCSSs in human permanent teeth are variable according to the tooth group and root thirds. The highest frequency of the circular-shaped canal at 1 and 2 mm from the apical foramen was found in maxillary central incisors and mandibular first and second premolars. Oval-shaped canals were detected in practically all tooth groups and root thirds.     

不同投照角度X线根尖片诊断下颌前牙、前磨牙多根管的临床评价

目的 探讨不同角度X线投照技术对发现下颌前牙、前磨牙多根管及提高其临床治疗率的作用。方法 选取临床上需要进行下颌前牙、前磨牙根管治疗的患者214例，共247颗患牙。每颗患牙均需拍摄术前X线正、偏位投照片及诊断丝X线正、偏位投照片。依据两种X线影像特点（根管位置和走向不在牙根中心、较粗大的根管在根管上1／3、中1／3突然消失或模糊）判断是否为可疑多根管。采用冠向下法预备，冷侧压法根管充填后将根管分为Ⅰ～Ⅴ型并与X线结果对应。结果 在87颗X线诊断的多根管患牙中，临床证实多根管为60．92％；26．44％为扁根管。诊断丝X线偏位投照片的多根管X线诊断灵敏度为93．0％，4例术后发现有遗漏根管。247颗下颌前牙、前磨牙临床治疗多根管57颗，多根管临床治疗率分别为：中切牙9．43％、侧切牙38．33％、尖牙15．90％、第一前磨牙加．38％、第二前磨牙2．63％。结论 不同角度的术前及诊断丝X线根尖片有助于临床医师发现下颌前牙、前磨牙多根管，其中以诊断丝X线偏位投照发现的多根管最多。     

C-shaped canals in mandibular molars of a Brazilian subpopulation: prevalence and root canal configuration using cone-beam computed tomography

Objectives

To assess C-shaped root canal configuration by identifying its prevalence and each configuration type proportion, according to tooth (mandibular first or second molar) and demographic characteristics in a Brazilian population, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Moreover, it was verified if there is a relationship between root canal configuration observed in two-dimensional reconstructions of CBCT and presence of C-shape.

Methods

Mandibular jaw CBCT scans (184 males and 220 females, aged 15 to 80 years), which presented 1464 mandibular molars (710 first molars and 754 second molars), were assessed. Teeth were evaluated for the presence and type of C-shaped root canals by observing the roots at five levels in CBCT axial reconstructions. Root canal configuration was assessed in panoramic reconstructions. Data were statistically analyzed at a significance level of 5%.

Results

Of the 1464 mandibular molars, 125 (8.5%) were classified as C-shaped. This variation was more prevalent in females (n = 107, 85.6%) and in second molars (n = 108, 86.4%). C1 (uninterrupted C-shaped canal) was the most prevalent type of C-shaped configuration (41.76%), while C5 (no canal lumen) was the least prevalent type (0.96%). Single root with single canal in panoramic reconstructions was the most predominant configuration for C-shaped teeth (n = 54, 43.2%). Fused roots presented 17.2 higher odds of being associated with C-shaped root canals than non-fused roots.

Conclusions

C-shaped root canals were more prevalent in mandibular second molars and in females. Additionally, clinicians should bear in mind the greater possibility of C-shaped configuration in mandibular molars with fused roots.

Clinical relevance

Mandibular molars with C-shaped canals present a clinical challenge. A higher C-shaped proportion was noted in radiographic fused root types, which had 17.2 higher odds of presenting such anatomy when compared to radiographic non-fused roots. Root radiographic features may help in diagnosis of complex C-shaped morphologies.

     

Evaluation of root canal morphology of human primary molars by using CBCT and comprehensive review of the literature

Objective Knowledge of primary tooth morphology is essential for clinical dentistry, especially for root canal treatment and dental traumatology. However, this has not been well documented to date with a large sample. This study was carried out to investigate the variation in number and morphology of the root canals of the primary molars, to study the applicability of cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) in assessing the same and to provide a comprehensive review of the literature. Materials and methods A total of 343 primary molars, without any root resorption, were divided into four main groups including the maxillary first molars, maxillary second molars, mandibular first molars and mandibular second molars. All of them were analysed in CBCT images in the axial, sagittal and coronal planes. Various parameters such as the number of roots, number of canals, the root canal type, diameter of root and root canal and root canal curvature were studied. Results Primary molars in all four groups showed variability in the number of roots and root canals. As far as length of the roots was concerned, the palatal root of the maxillary molar was found to be longest, while the distobuccal root was shortest. In mandibular molars, the mesial root was longer than the distal root. The length of distobuccal root canal of the maxillary molars and the distolingual canal of the mandibular molars was found to be shortest. The number of roots and root canals varied from two to four and three to four, respectively. The maxillary molars exhibited more one-canal than two-canal roots. Conclusion The present study provides comprehensive information to the existing literature concerning the variation in root canal morphology of the maxillary and mandibular primary molar teeth. These data may help clinicians in the root canal treatment of these teeth.     

Analisi della morfologia radicolare e canalare di molari superiori ed inferiori in una popolazione Caucasica: studio in vivo alla CBCT

AimTo investigate the root and canal morphology of maxillary and mandibular permanent molar teeth in a Caucasian population by using Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).MethodsA total of 596 permanent molars were included. The number of roots, the number of canals per root and the root canal configurations according to the method of Vertucci were recorded.ResultsAlmost all of maxillary first molars (95.7%) had three separate roots; however, 40.3% of mesiobuccal roots had two canals (MB2). Of 157 maxillary second molars, 88.5% had three roots. Among the mesiobuccal roots, 15.1% had two canals. The majority of mandibular molars (100% of first molars, 89.4% of second molars) had two separate roots. Most distal roots had a simple type I configuration, whereas mesial roots had more complex canal systems, with more than one canal.ConclusionsCBCT is an efficient method of studying root canal systems.     

Evaluation of technical quality and periapical health of root-filled teeth by using cone-beam CT

Objective

This study aimed to assess the quality of root fillings, coronal restorations, complications of all root-filled teeth and their association with apical periodontitis (AP) detected by cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images from an adult Turkish subpopulation.

Material and Methods

The sample for this study consisted of 242 patients (aging from 15 to 72 years) with 522 endodontically treated teeth that were assessed for technical quality of the root canal filling and periapical status of the teeth. Additionally, the apical status of each root-filled tooth was assessed according to the gender, dental arch, tooth type and age classification, undetected canals, instrument fracture, root fracture, apical resorption, apical lesion, furcation lesion and type and quality of the coronal structure. Statistical analysis was performed using percentages and chi-square test.

Results

The success rate of the root canal treatment was of 54.4%. The success rates of adequate and inadequate root canal treatment were not significantly different (p>0.05). Apical periodontitis was found in 228 (45.6%) teeth treated for root canals. Higher prevalence of AP was found in patients aging from 20 to 29 years [64 (27%) teeth] and in anterior (canines and incisors) teeth [97 (41%) teeth].

Conclusions

The technical quality of root canal filling performed by dental practitioners in a Turkish subpopulation was consistent with a high prevalence of AP. The probable reasons for this failure are multifactorial, and there may be a need for improved undergraduate education and postgraduate courses to improve the clinical skills of dental practitioners in endodontics.     

Worldwide Prevalence of the Lingual Canal in Mandibular Incisors: A Multicenter Cross-sectional Study with Meta-analysis

IntroductionThis cross-sectional study assessed the influence of patient demographics on the worldwide prevalence of a lingual canal in mandibular incisors.MethodsTwenty-six thousand four hundred mandibular incisors were evaluated using cone-beam computed tomography imaging by precalibrated observers from 44 countries. A standardized screening method was employed to collect data on the presence of a lingual canal, the anatomic configuration of the root canal, and number of roots. Patient demographic information (age, sex, and ethnicity) was also recorded. Multiple intra and interrater tests assessed the reliability of the observers and groups, and a meta-analysis was used to examine differences and heterogeneities (α = 5%).ResultsThe prevalence of the lingual canal in mandibular central and lateral incisors varied from 2.3% (0.06%–4.0%; Nigeria) to 45.3% (39.7%–51.0%; Syria) and from 2.3% (0.06%–4.0%; Nigeria) to 55.0% (49.4%–60.6%; India), respectively. Ethnicity had a significant impact on the prevalence of the lingual canal, with African, Asian, and Hispanic groups having the lowest proportions (P < .05), while Caucasians, Indians, and Arabs showed the highest (P < .05) for both incisor groups. Additionally, males had a significantly higher odds ratio for both the central (1.334) and lateral (1.178) incisors, while older patients had a lower prevalence for both tooth groups (P < .05). The side and tooth group did not influence on the outcomes.ConclusionsThe prevalence of lingual root canals in mandibular incisors varies significantly based on geographic location, ethnicity, age, and gender. The overall prevalence was 21.9% for mandibular central incisors and 26.0% for lateral incisors.     

Detection of Various Anatomic Patterns of Root Canals in Mandibular Incisors Using Digital Periapical Radiography, 3 Cone-beam Computed Tomographic Scanners,and Micro–Computed Tomographic Imaging

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of digital periapical (PA) radiography and 3 cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scanners in the identification of various internal anatomic patterns in mandibular incisors.

Methods

Forty mandibular incisors were scanned using micro–computed tomographic imaging as the gold standard to establish the internal anatomic pattern. The number of root canals and internal patterns were classified into type I (single canal, n = 12), type Ia (single oval canal, n = 12), and type III (2 canals, n = 16). The teeth were placed in a human mandible, and digital PA radiography and 3 CBCT scans (Kodak 9000 3D [Carestream Health, Rochester, NY], Veraviewepocs 3De [J Morita MFG Corp, Kyoto, Japan], NewTom 5G [QR Srl, Verona, Italy]) were performed. Two blinded examiners classified each tooth's anatomic pattern, which were then compared with the micro–computed tomographic determinations.

Results

Considering type I and type Ia, which both presented with 1 root canal, there was a high degree of accuracy for all methods used (P > .05). The same result was found for type III. When identifying the shape of single canals (type I), CBCT imaging was more accurate compared with PA radiography. Concerning oval canals (type Ia), there was a significant difference between PA radiography and NewTom CBCT (PA radiography = 44%, NewTom = 88%). However, there were no significant differences between the 3 CBCT units.

Conclusions

Double-exposure digital PA radiography for mandibular incisors is sufficient for the identification of the number of root canals. All CBCT devices showed improved accuracy in the identification of single root canal anatomy when a narrow canal was present. However, the identification of oval canals was improved only with the NewTom CBCT device.     

Radiographic study of the root canal system of mandibular anterior teeth

Summary. Two-hundred full mouth periapical radiographic surveys from the files of the School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, were evaluated in order to investigate the number of root canals in mandibular incisors and canines. A total of 1200 mandibular anterior teeth (400 canines, 400 lateral incisors and 400 central incisors) were examined in their orthoradial radiograph and in the radiograph of the adjacent anatomical area in which the teeth were observed from an eccentric angulation. No correlation between sex or age of the patient and the number of root canals in the mandibular anterior teeth was established. The full mouth periapical radio-graphic survey provided a diagnostic method for determining the number of root canals of the teeth examined when both the orthoradial and eccentric radiographs of the same tooth were evaluated. The results of the present study in vivo are in agreement with previous studies in vitro.     

Root Canal Morphology of Permanent Maxillary Teeth in the Han Nationality in Chinese Guanzhong Area: A New Modified Root Canal Staining Technique

IntroductionThe purpose of this study was to investigate the canal morphology of 504 maxillary permanent teeth of subjects of Han nationality in Chinese Guanzhong area.MethodsMaxillary permanent teeth were randomly collected in Guanzhong area. After regular preparation, the teeth were immersed into ink without preparing access cavities and then put into hyperbaric oxygen chamber (0.6 Mpa) for 2 hours to let the ink penetrate into root canal from apical foramen, apical deltas and foramen of lateral canals under stable positive pressure. After demineralization and clearing, the following observations were made: (1) number of root canals, (2) root canal configuration by using Vertucci's classification, (3) presence of lateral canals, and (4) frequency of apical deltas.ResultsAll the teeth were well-stained, and the fine details were well-revealed. Apical deltas (12.2%–83.3%) and lateral canals (13.7%–68.8%) could be frequently found in all types of maxillary teeth. Most of central incisors (95.8%), lateral incisors (91.4%), and canines (75.4%) displayed type I canal configuration, whereas most of first premolars (87.3%) and second premolars (72.3%) possessed 2 canals with type II, IV, or VI canal configuration. The majority of distobuccal roots and palatal roots of first molars (88.9%, 97.8%), second molars (92.0%, 94.0%), and third molars (87.5%, 91.6%) possessed type I canal configuration. The prevalence of mesiobuccal roots with type I configuration was 66.7% in maxillary first molars, 82% in second molars, and 62.5% in third molars.ConclusionsThe modified technique of canal staining can effectively reveal detailed root canal system. The canal configuration of maxillary teeth in subjects of Han nationality in Chinese Guanzhong area is consistent with previous reports in other races.