Accuracy of Endodontic Access Cavities Performed Using an Augmented Reality Appliance: An In Vitro Study

Area of Science:

• Dental Technology
• Endodontics
• Surgical Navigation

Background:

• Accurate endodontic access cavity preparation is crucial for successful root canal treatment.
• Conventional freehand techniques may be limited by operator skill and visualization.
• Emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR) offer potential for improved procedural accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the accuracy of endodontic access cavities created using an augmented reality (AR) appliance versus the conventional manual (freehand) technique.
• To evaluate the precision of AR-guided preparation at apical, coronal, and angular levels.

Main Methods:

• Sixty single-rooted anterior teeth were divided into two groups: AR-guided (n=30) and manual (n=30).
• AR group utilized 3D planning software, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and intraoral scans integrated with an AR device.
• Post-procedure CBCT scans were analyzed using Student's t-test to compare planned versus performed cavities; Gage R&R assessed measurement reliability.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences in accuracy were observed between the AR and manual groups at the coronal (p=0.0029) and apical (p=0.0063) levels.
• No statistically significant difference was found in the angular accuracy between the two groups (p=0.6596).

Conclusions:

• Augmented reality (AR) devices significantly enhance the accuracy of endodontic access cavity preparation compared to the conventional freehand technique.
• AR guidance facilitates safer and more precise endodontic procedures, particularly in coronal and apical alignment.