Multidetector computed tomography dentascan analysis of root canal morphology of maxillary canine

The aims of this in vitro study were to see potential applications of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in the analysis of root canal morphology.

In this in vitro study measurement of root and canal diameters, root and canal diameter ratios, and radicular wall thickness at different levels in maxillary canines with long oval root canals. A total of 40 human maxillary canines, with single long oval canals were selected for this study. The specimens were analyzed with MDCT (16 slice) through dentascan software. The cross-sections corresponding to 625 mm slice thickness from the radiologic apex were analyzed to measure the mesiodistal (MD) and buccolingual (BL) diameters of the canals and the thickness of the root and the walls. The BL/MD ratios of the canal (∆C) and the root (∆R) diameters were calculated, as was as the mean taper in both a BL and an MD dimension.

A high correlation was established between the shape of the root canal and the corresponding root.

Clinical Implications of these techniques is useful to clinician and it can also be applied to improve preclinical training and analysis of fundamental procedures in endodontic and restorative treatment.