Application and prospect of static/dynamic guided endodontics for managing pulpal and periapical diseases

Abstract

Root canal therapy and endodontic surgery are conventional treatments for pulpal and periapical diseases. Compared with naked-eye operations, the application of dental operating microscope has enhanced the procedural accuracy and prognosis efficiently. However, root canals with pulp calcification/obliteration, apical lesions with thick cortical bone or adjacent to important anatomic structures are even challenging for experienced operators to achieve predictable clinical outcomes. Recently, with the advances in the field of digitalized information sciences, the above mentioned complicated endodontic cases can be solved under static and dynamic guidance. Before the treatment begins, virtual path is designed from data collected by cone-beam CT and oral image scanning using guidance software. Afterwards, root canal therapy and endodontic surgery can be performed precisely under the assistance of three-dimensional printed guide or dynamic guidance system. The present review describes the classification, features and clinical applications of the guided endodontics.