Diagnosis of Vertucci Type VII Anatomy in the Mandibular Left Lateral Incisor Using Digital Radiography: An Ex Vivo Case Study.

ABSTRACT

Mandibular lateral incisors sometimes feature an additional lingual canal, which, if not identified and missed during endodontic treatment, can lead to postoperative pain. Thus, a proper diagnosis of the internal anatomy of a tooth is necessary before treatment begins. Radiovisiography (RVG), a cost-effective and widely employed dental imaging technique, is used in clinics to visualize the internal root structure of teeth. The zoom function of RVG allows for a detailed examination of complex internal anatomical variations, facilitating a more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning process. This case study identified a rare Vertucci Type VII root canal system in a mandibular left lateral incisor using the zoom-in feature of radiovisiography (Vatech, EZ sensor). Additionally, horizontal sectioning was performed, and these sections were imaged to verify the accuracy of digital radiographs in diagnosing such cases as part of a preclinical demonstration for aspiring endodontists.