Evaluation of Root Canal Filling with a Bioceramic Sealer Using Micro-Computed Tomography: A Pilot Study

Isabel Vasconcelos,Pedro Morouço,Margarida C Franco,António Ginjeira,Nuno Alves,Mário Rito Pereira

doi:10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.890.275

Isabel Vasconcelos, Pedro Morouço + Show 4 more

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https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/amm.890.275

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Abstract

This pilot study aims to define a protocol for optimizing the micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) settings to evaluate in the future research the root canal filling in oval shaped canals. Thirty distal canals of mandibular molars were used. After preparation of the canals, the roots were randomly divided into five groups. The canals were filled with two types of sealers (Endosequence BC Sealer or AH Plus) and two types of gutta percha (Protaper Next cones and Endosequence BC cones), using thermal obturation in comparison with a single cone obturation technique. Each specimen was scanned three times using a micro-CT device at a resolution of 30,1 μm. The first scan was done for selecting the specimen according the inclusion criteria, the second one post-instrumentation and the last micro-CT scan after obturation the specimens. For the present study, the images were only evaluated with qualitative criteria and the settings for acquisition, reconstruction and analysis of micro-CT images were tested.

Highlights

Complete sealing of the root canal system after cleaning and shaping is critical to prevent oral pathogens from colonizing and re-infecting the root canal system and periapical tissues [1]
The anatomy of the root canal system should always be taken into account [2]
The use of micro-CT in endodontics has brought several advantages for research, either for evaluation of anatomical features or treatment effects and materials used in endodontics

Summary

Introduction

Complete sealing of the root canal system after cleaning and shaping is critical to prevent oral pathogens from colonizing and re-infecting the root canal system and periapical tissues [1]. During this process, the anatomy of the root canal system should always be taken into account [2]. There are teeth with relatively round root canal cross-sections but we have oval, long oval, flattened or irregular counterparts, typically observed in distal roots of mandibular molars [2]. Even when using thermoplasticized guttapercha techniques, there is limited ability to completely fill oval shaped root canals [4,5]

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