Effects of CBCT acquisition protocol and additional superimposed computerized optical impressions on the accuracy of root canal length measurements: an ex vivo study.

AIM: The purpose of the present investigation was to evaluate the accuracy of root canal length (RCL) determination according to CBCT acquisition protocol and evaluate the influence of additional superimposed computerized optical impressions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CBCT scans with low-dose (LD) and high-definition (HD) protocols as well as computerized optical impressions of 30 extracted human molars were acquired. Sicat Endo software (Sicat) was used for CBCT RCL measurements with (LD+, HD+) and without (LD-, HD-) a superimposed optical impression. To evaluate the accuracy, absolute differences between test groups and the actual root canal length (ARCL) were calculated and statistically analyzed using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. RESULTS: Absolute differences between the ARCL and the tested measurement methods varied significantly (P < 0.05). Both higher resolution and additionally superimposed computerized optical impression improved measurement accuracy. Mean differences compared with the ARCL were 0.26 mm (HD+), 0.34 mm (HD-), 0.43 mm (LD+), and 0.66 mm (LD-). 93.4% of all measurements in the HD+ group were within the limits of ± 0.5 mm. CONCLUSION: Both resolution and superimposition of additional computerized optical impressions have a significant influence on RCL measurements using CBCT.

Guided endodontic access of a calcified mandibular central incisor using a software-based three-dimensional treatment plan.

This case report describes the digital and clinical workflow of a guided endodontic access approach in a mandibular central incisor with pulp canal calcification (PCC). The access to the remaining pulp space was planned virtually using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and the Sicat Endo software (Sicat, Bonn, Germany). Sicat produced the corresponding Accessguide after matching a digitized cast model and the virtual treatment plan. The clinical access was prepared using a carbide bur with a diameter of 1.2 mm. After the root canal was localized successfully, it was disinfected chemomechanically, dried, and obturated using a warm vertical compaction technique.