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Root canal anatomy illustrated by microcomputed tomography and clinical cases
Donald C Yu1, Alphonsus Tam, Herbert Schilder
1Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton.
General Dentistry
|September 29, 2006
Summary
Microcomputed tomography and radiographs reveal complex human root canal anatomy, including branching and intercommunication. Understanding this intricate dental anatomy is key for successful endodontic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Anatomy
- Radiology
Background:
- Understanding complex root canal anatomy is crucial for effective endodontic treatment.
- Traditional imaging methods may not fully reveal intricate root canal morphology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To illustrate human root anatomy using microcomputed tomography and radiographs.
- To compare the depiction of root canal systems by microcomputed tomography and clinical radiographs.
Main Methods:
- Human extracted teeth were scanned using microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) at 0.9-degree intervals over 180 degrees.
- Cross-sectional and 3D images were generated from micro-CT data.
- Radiographs of endodontic cases with significant root canal anatomy were collected and evaluated.
Main Results:
- Micro-CT scans demonstrated main root canals branching into finer canals with multiple exit portals.
- Intercommunication between main and accessory canals was observed.
- Apical delta configurations were infrequent, a finding consistent with clinical radiographs.
Conclusions:
- Both micro-CT and clinical radiographs effectively depict complex root canal anatomy.
- A thorough understanding of dental anatomy is essential for successful cleaning, shaping, and obturation of root canal systems.
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