Continuous Measurement of Three-Dimensional Root Canal Curvature Using Cone-Beam Computed and Micro-Computed...

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Imaging
• Anatomy

Background:

• Root canal curvature knowledge is critical for preventing procedural errors like ledge formation, perforation, and instrument fracture during endodontic therapy.
• Accurate quantification of root canal curvature and the utility of 3D imaging data are essential for improving treatment outcomes.
• Human mandibular molars present complex root canal anatomy that requires precise evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a method for quantifying the 3D curvature of root canals.
• To assess the applicability of diagnostically relevant tomographic imaging data, specifically cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and micro-computed tomography (µCT), for curvature analysis.
• To compare the curvature measurements obtained from CBCT and µCT data.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of CBCT images and µCT data from 50 human mandibular molars.
• Determination of the 3D centerline curvature of distal root canals.
• Identification of canal slice centroids and approximation using spline curves to define the centerline and calculate curvature.
• Comparison of curvature results derived from both imaging modalities.

Main Results:

• Minimum radii of curvature were determined as 2.6 mm for CBCT and 2.1 mm for µCT.
• The study confirmed the necessity of 3D imaging data (CBCT and µCT) for reliable root canal curvature analysis.
• Results from CBCT and µCT evaluations showed comparable radii of curvature.

Conclusions:

• The developed method, when applied to CBCT and µCT imaging, provides reliable quantification of root canal curvature.
• Comparable results between CBCT and µCT suggest their suitability for assessing root canal anatomy.
• Integrating this method with CBCT in clinical practice can serve as a crucial diagnostic step to mitigate endodontic treatment complications.