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Validity of longitudinal sections for determining the apical constriction
S Schell1, M S Judenhofer2, J G Mannheim3
1Division of Endodontology, Department of Conservative Dentistry, School of Dental Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
International Endodontic Journal
|June 11, 2016
Summary
Longitudinal sections using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) provided inconsistent results for identifying the apical constriction
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Anatomy
- Radiology
Background:
- Accurate identification of the apical constriction is crucial for successful endodontic treatment.
- Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) offers high-resolution imaging for dental structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the use of longitudinal sections against cross sections using micro-CT for disclosing the topography and location of the apical constriction.
Main Methods:
- Seventy extracted human teeth (117 roots) underwent micro-CT scanning at 27 μm voxel size.
- Longitudinal and cross-sectional analyses of root canals were performed using 3DSlicer software.
- Constriction topography and location were assessed and compared between the two methods.
Main Results:
- Longitudinal sections, when pooled, revealed multiple topographies and locations of the apical constriction per canal.
- Cross-sectional analysis consistently identified a single constriction form per canal.
Conclusions:
- Longitudinal sections using micro-CT provide inconsistent data on apical constriction topography and location compared to cross-sectional analysis.
- Cross-sectional analysis appears more reliable for determining a single apical constriction form.
