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Visualization of Pulpal Structures by SWIR in Endodontic Access Preparation
1Department of Conservative Dentistry and Periodontology, LMU Hospital, LMU, Munich, Germany.
Journal of Dental Research
|August 5, 2024
Summary
Shortwave infrared (SWIR) transillumination allows direct visualization of tooth anatomy during endodontic access preparation. This technique aids navigation by identifying pulpal structures before they are normally visible.
Area of Science:
- Dental research
- Medical imaging
- Biophotonics
Background:
- Endodontic access preparation is crucial for root canal treatment.
- Pulp canal obliteration and tertiary dentin formation hinder access.
- Lack of intraoperative 3D visualization methods for dental anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate shortwave infrared (SWIR) radiation for navigation during stepwise endodontic access preparation.
- To assess SWIR's ability to visualize hidden pulpal structures.
Main Methods:
- Explantation of nine human teeth with intact periodontium.
- Application of SWIR reflection (1,550 nm) and transillumination (1,300 nm).
- Analysis at baseline and preparation depths of 5, 7, and 9 mm, validated with micro-computed tomography (µCT) and radiomic analysis.
Main Results:
- SWIR transillumination identified pulpal structures as darker areas ~2 mm before pulp chamber exposure.
- Furcation areas showed higher intensity than canals in molars.
- Radiomic analysis revealed significant differences between pulpal and parapulpal areas; µCT thickness correlated linearly with SWIR intensity.
Conclusions:
- SWIR transillumination enables visualization of pulpal structures obscured by tertiary dentin.
- Dentin tubules play a crucial role in pulp visibility via SWIR.
- SWIR transillumination shows potential for direct clinical live navigation in endodontic access preparation.
