Abscesso dentoalveolar crônico em paciente pediátrico com drenagem rara / Absceso dentoalveolar crónico en paciente pediátrico con drenaje raro / Chronic dentoalveolar abscess in a pediatric patient with rare drainage

RESUMO Introdução: As infecções do complexo maxillomandibular são corriqueiras na odontologia, podendo ser um quadro facilmente revertido, a depender da habilidade do profissional de diagnosticar e tratar precocemente, bem como da imunocompetência do paciente. Seu fator etiológico na grande maioria das vezes é de origem dentária, possuindo microbiota mista com presença de Streptococos e Peptostreptococos. Estas bactérias estão associadas ao processo de necrose pulpar e formação de abscesso dentoalveolar. Quando este quadro se desenvolve a partir dos molares inferiores, a disseminação ocorre normalmente pelo espaço vestíbulo bucal. No entanto, há casos que evadem o padrão, podendo um molar disseminar através dos espaços mastigador, mandibular, submandibular, sublingual e submentoniano. Objetivo: Relatar um caso de infecção odontogênica do dente 36, com disseminação atípica para o espaço submandibular em paciente pediátrico. Relato de caso clínico: Paciente do sexo feminino, 8 anos de idade, constou em seu histórico odonto-médico, junto a sua genitora, episódio de internamento para diagnóstico e tratamento da infecção em face. O diagnóstico de celulite foi determinado e a origem dentária descartada. Iniciou antibióticoterapia e após regressão teve alta. Após 9 meses apresentou reagudização do processo com disseminação para região submandibular. Através da história da doença atual, exame físico e radiográfico foi definido o diagnóstico de abscesso dentoalveolar crônico com disseminação e drenagem para o espaço submandibular, optando-se pela exodontia e antibióticoterapia. Conclusões: Faz-se importante o diagnóstico e tratamento precoce, afim de evitar a progressão para complicações mais severas, como a mediastinite e fasciíte necrosante(AU)

RESUMEN Introducción: Las infecciones del complejo maxilo-mandibular son comunes en la odontología, pudiendo ser un cuadro fácilmente revertido, que depende de la habilidad del profesional de diagnosticar y tratar precozmente, así como de la inmunocompetencia del paciente. Su factor etiológico en la gran mayoría de las veces es de origen dental, con microbiota mixta y presencia de Streptococos y Peptostreptococos. Estas bacterias están asociadas al proceso de necrosis pulpar y formación de absceso dentoalveolar. Cuando este cuadro se desarrolla a partir de los molares inferiores, la diseminación ocurre normalmente por el espacio vestíbulo bucal. Sin embargo, hay casos que evaden el estándar, pudiendo un molar diseminar a través de los espacios masticador, mandibular, submandibular, sublingual y submentoniano. Objetivo: Describir un caso de infección odontogénica proveniente de necrosis pulpar del diente 36, con diseminación atípica para el espacio submandibular en paciente pediátrico. Caso clínico: Paciente de sexo femenino, de 8 años, constó en su historia médica-dental, episodio de internamiento para diagnóstico y tratamiento de la infección en el rostro. Se determinó el diagnóstico de celulitis y tuvo el origen dental descartado. Se inició antibioticoterapia y se dio alta hospitalaria. Después de 9 meses presentó exacerbación del proceso con diseminación para región submandibular. A través de la historia de la enfermedad actual, examen físico y radiográfico se definió el diagnóstico de absceso dentoalveolar crónico con diseminación y drenaje para el espacio submandibular, y entonces fue posible optar por la exodoncia y antibioticoterapia. Conclusiones: Se hace importante el diagnóstico y tratamiento precoz, a fin de evitar la progresión para complicaciones más severas, como la mediastinitis y fasciitis necrosante(AU)

ABSTRACT Introduction: Infections of the maxillomandibular complex are common in dentistry and may be easily reversed, depending on the professional's ability to diagnose and treat promptly, as well as the patient's immunocompetence. In most cases their etiology is dental, i.e. a mixed microbiota with presence of Streptococci and Peptostreptococci. These bacteria are associated to the process of pulp necrosis and dentoalveolar abscess formation. When this condition develops from the lower molars, dissemination usually occurs through the buccal vestibular space. However, there are cases that do not follow this pattern, allowing a molar to spread through the buccal, mandibular, submandibular, sublingual and submental spaces. Objective: Report a case of odontogenic infection from pulp necrosis of the lower first molar (36) ​​with atypical dissemination to the submandibular space in a pediatric patient. Clinical case: Female 8-year-old patient with an episode of hospitalization for diagnosis and treatment of a facial infection, according to her medical / dental record. The infection was diagnosed as cellulitis and dental origin was discarded. Antibiotic therapy was started and the patient was discharged. After 9 months, the infection underwent a process of exacerbation with dissemination to the submandibular region. Analysis of the antecedents of the current condition, alongside physical and radiographic examination, led to the diagnosis of chronic dentoalveolar abscess with dissemination and drainage to the submandibular space, and the consequent indication of dental extraction and antibiotic therapy. Conclusions: Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to avoid progression to severer complications such as mediastinitis and necrotizing fasciitis(AU)

Chondroblastic osteosarcoma mimicking periapical abscess.

CASE REPORT: The present report describes a case of chondroblastic osteosarcoma in the periapical region of teeth #29, #30, and #31 of an 18-year-old male. Clinical history showed self-reported discomfort in the right posterior gingiva for over a month. Physical examination showed a small expansion and redness of the right mandibular buccal and lingual cortical plates, but no signs of pain or inflammation were observed. All the teeth responded positively to pulp sensibility. Periapical and panoramic radiographs showed slight periapical radiolucency in the roots of teeth #29 and #30, clear periodontal ligament space widening, and evident loss of lamina dura. Incisional biopsy was performed, and based on microscopic findings the diagnosis of chondroblastic osteosarcoma was confirmed. CONCLUSIONS: Non-endodontic diseases associated with tooth root apex, such as chondroblastic osteosarcoma, should be included in differential diagnosis of jaw lesions that resemble periapical abscess.

Chondroblastic osteosarcoma mimicking periapical abscess

Abstract Lesions of non-endodontic origin may mimic periapical abscess. Osteosarcoma is a rare malignant lesion. Case report The present report describes a case of chondroblastic osteosarcoma in the periapical region of teeth #29, #30, and #31 of an 18-year-old male. Clinical history showed self-reported discomfort in the right posterior gingiva for over a month. Physical examination showed a small expansion and redness of the right mandibular buccal and lingual cortical plates, but no signs of pain or inflammation were observed. All the teeth responded positively to pulp sensibility. Periapical and panoramic radiographs showed slight periapical radiolucency in the roots of teeth #29 and #30, clear periodontal ligament space widening, and evident loss of lamina dura. Incisional biopsy was performed, and based on microscopic findings the diagnosis of chondroblastic osteosarcoma was confirmed. Conclusions Non-endodontic diseases associated with tooth root apex, such as chondroblastic osteosarcoma, should be included in differential diagnosis of jaw lesions that resemble periapical abscess.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Odontogenic Cutaneous Sinus Tracts in an 11-Year-Old Boy: A Case Report.

Odontogenic cutaneous sinus tracts (OCSTs) are generally primarily misdiagnosed and inappropriately treated by virtue of their rarity and the absence of dental symptoms. Accurate diagnosis and treatment and the elimination of the source of infection can reduce the incidence of complications and relieve the pain of the patient.In this case report, we present the case of an 11-year-old patient with an apparent abscess but an unobvious draining sinus tract in his left cheek. Intraorally, a glass-ionomer-cement filling on the occlusal surface of the left mandibular first molar (tooth 36) was noted. Radiographic examination revealed a radiopaque mass inside the crown and pulp chamber and an irregular, radiolucent periapical lesion surrounding the distal root apex. He was diagnosed with an OCTS secondary to a periapical abscess of tooth 36. Precise root canal therapy (RCT) and chronic granuloma debridement was performed; 6 months later, the abscess and sinus had healed completely, and the periapical lesion had resolved.Odontogenic cutaneous sinus tracts are uncommon in the clinic. This case report reminds us of the significance of OCSTs and provides some implications for their diagnosis and treatment.

Prevalence of several herpesviruses and human papillomavirus in acute apical abscesses.

AIM: To investigate and compare the radiographic size of acute apical abscess lesions for the presence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) and human papillomaviruses (HPV) DNA by means of the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. METHODOLOGY: According to the radiographic size of acute apical abscess lesions, 11 lesions were categorized as large (≥5 mm) and 10 lesions as small (<5 mm). DNA extracts from purulent exudate aspirates of 21 cases of acute apical abscess and 10 control samples were evaluated for the presence of viral loads using real-time PCR methods following the kit protocols recommended by the manufacturers. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared test with Yates's correction and Fisher's exact test. RESULTS: HCMV DNA was detected in 27% of large and in 10% of small abscess lesions. EBV was identified in 18% of large and in 10% of small abscess lesions. HPV and HHV-6 DNA were found in 9% of large abscess lesions. None of the small abscess lesions contained HPV or HHV-6 DNA. Viral coinfections were found in two samples as the pair of HCMV/EBV and HCMV/HHV-6 from large abscess lesions. No significant associations were found between any of the target viruses and size of periapical lesions. As for the healthy pulps used as noninflamed controls, no control specimens contained viral DNA. CONCLUSIONS: HCMV was the most frequent herpesvirus amongst the target viruses in samples from both large and small apical abscess lesions. In large lesions, EBV and HHV-6 tended to occur in coinfection with HCMV. Additional studies are required to elucidate the role of herpesviruses in the pathogenesis of periapical abscess.

The value of cone beam CT in assessing and managing a dilated odontome of a maxillary canine.

A case of an unusual anomaly in a maxillary canine is described. A deep enamel invagination resulted in pulpal necrosis, longstanding infection and development of an associated radicular cyst. Diagnostic X-ray imaging was invaluable in demonstrating the complex root anatomy of the dilated odontome. In particular, a cone beam CT scan helped in the formulation of an appropriate treatment plan. Clinical Relevance: Three-dimensional imaging using cone beam CT was valuable in this case to demonstrate the complicated anatomy of a rare dental anomaly, and to help plan treatment.

Orbital cellulitis as a complication of mandibular odontogenic infection.

A 30-year-old man presented with an acute left eye proptosis, pain, and decreased vision. He had been having a dental infection since 3 days. Orbital CT scan showed abscess in the left orbit. On dental X-ray a periapical radiolucency of the mandibular left-second molar was observed, and no obvious sinus involvement was noted. Intravenous antibiotic therapy did not lead to any significant improvement. Therefore, the patient underwent combined dental and orbital surgery to drain the abscess. Following the surgery, the patient's clinical signs and symptoms resolved completely.

Treatment of through-and-through bone lesion using autologous growth factors and xenogeneic bone graft: a case report.

BACKGROUND: This pilot case study aimed at evaluating the possibility of achieving optimal hard and soft tissue regeneration using plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) and anorganic bovine bone (ABB) for the surgical treatment of a large through-and-through periapical bone lesion. CASE REPORT: Maxillary incisors of a patient with through-and-through periapical lesion of endodontic origin were treated using modern endodontic surgical technique with the adjunct of PRGF. The PRGF clot was positioned over the palatal side of the lesion while the remaining bone defect was grafted with PRGF and ABB. A collagen membrane embedded with plasma very rich in growth factors covered the graft. Post-operative pain and swelling were negligible, and soft tissue healing was very fast. One-year clinical and radiographic outcome showed complete healing and functionality. DISCUSSION: The addition of PRGF to ABB could improve the regenerative process, reducing postoperative symptoms and resulting in a fast and predictable hard and soft tissue healing.

A comparative evaluation of healing with a computed tomography scan of bilateral periapical lesions treated with and without the use of platelet-rich plasma.

Periradicular surgery aims to achieve complete wound healing and regeneration of the periodontal unit. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a platelet concentrate that is widely used to promote tissue healing, and bone induction through its various growth factors has been used in this study. This case report describes the use of PRP unilaterally in a bilateral periapical lesion in the same patient. The site treated with PRP showed better healing than the untreated site. This was confirmed with computed tomography (CT) scan readings. It was hypothesized that PRP could promote tissue regeneration and alveolar bone repair.

Comparative evaluation of platelet-rich plasma and guided tissue regeneration membrane in the healing of apicomarginal defects: a clinical study.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the study was to compare the healing responses of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), PRP + a collagen sponge, and a collagen membrane used as guided tissue regeneration (GTR) materials for the treatment of apicomarginal defects. METHODS: Thirty patients with suppurative chronic apical periodontitis and apicomarginal communication were selected and allocated randomly into three groups according to the barrier technique to be used during periradicular surgery: the collagen membrane group, the PRP group, and the PRP + collagen sponge group. Clinical and radiographic measurements were determined at baseline and every 3 months after surgery up to 1 year. Cases were defined as healed when no clinical signs or symptoms were present, and radiographs showed complete or incomplete (scar tissue) healing of previous radiolucencies. RESULTS: The PRP and PRP + collagen sponge groups depicted 83.33% and 88.89% healing, respectively, in terms of combined clinical-radiographic healing as compared with 80% in the collagen membrane group. All the three treatments showed highly significant (P < .05) reductions in the periodontal pocket depth (PD), the clinical attachment level (CAL), the gingival margin position (GMP), the size of the periapical lesion, the percentage reduction of the periapical rarefactions, and periapical healing. No significant differences between the three groups were evident for these parameters (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: GTR applied to apicomarginal defects using PRP or PRP + collagen sponge lead to similar enhancements of the clinical outcome of periradicular surgery in terms of periapical healing, gain of periodontal support, PD reduction, and PRP may be an alternative treatment for GTR membrane in the treatment of apicomarginal defects.

CBCT technology: endodontics and beyond, Part 2.

There is a saying that knowledge is power. Without realizing it, 2-D imaging has created a large information gap due to its limitations as a technology resource. As dental professionals, we have relied on this technology while rarely questioning its validity or the quality of information it provided to us. With the advent of 3-D imaging, that information gap has been narrowed. CBCT imaging has stretched our boundaries, allowing for complete and accurate information in all 3 dimensions. This new knowledge is a most powerful force in dentistry that will dynamically change our ideas, diagnoses, and treatment options. It is the author's belief that the implementation of this technology will lead to new innovations and better care in all specialties of dentistry.

Panoramic radiographic examination: a survey of 271 edentulous patients.

The aim of this study was to quantify the frequency of positive radiographic findings in edentulous arches. Panoramic radiographs from 271 patients who were edentulous in one or both arches were evaluated for the presence of retained root fragments, impacted teeth, foreign bodies, radiolucencies, radiopacities, mental foramina at or near the crest of the residual alveolar ridge, and maxillary sinus proximity to the crest of the residual alveolar ridge. One or more of these radiographic observations were found in 51.7% of the examined films. The most frequent finding (30.6%) was close approximation of the maxillary sinus to the crest of the ridge. These results underscore the importance of panoramic examination of edentulous patients in detecting potential problems before complete denture treatment. However, prescribing such an examination in patients seeking replacement dentures requires a thorough patient history and clinical examination.

Estimation of salivary amylase and total proteins in leukemia patients and its correlation with clinical feature and radiographic finding.

BACKGROUND: Leukemia is a fatal disease. The oral manifestations of the leukemias occur early in the course of the disease and these oral features can at times act as a diagnostic indicator. Saliva has been used as a diagnostic aid in a number of systemic diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In our study, samples of unstimulated saliva of 30 leukemia patients who were not on chemotherapy were collected and analyzed for salivary amylase and total protein. The oral manifestations and radiographic changes (OPG) were recorded. The correlation between the oral manifestations and the salivary components (salivary amylase and total protein) was assessed for prognostic significance. RESULTS: In the present study when the mean values of salivary amylase (1280±754 U/ml) and total protein (647.2±320.7 mg%) were compared with that in control subjects. There was a statistically significant difference for amylase levels (P<.05). On intraoral examination the study subjects showed pallor, gingivitis, gingival enlargement, petechiae, and ecchymosis. On the OPG, the radiographic features included generalized rarefaction of bone (20%), thinning of lamina dura (3.4%), generalized alveolar crest bone resorption (30%), thinning of walls of alveolar crypts (6.7%), besides others, e.g., periapical abscess (10%). CONCLUSIONS: The saliva of leukemic patients demonstrated obvious changes in composition. A rise in salivary amylase and total protein levels was evident, with the increase in amylase levels being statistically significant.

Non-surgical management of a large periapical lesion using a simple aspiration technique: a case report.

AIM: To report the non-surgical management of a large periapical lesion. SUMMARY: Surgical treatment of large periapical lesions is often subject to various complications. Hence, a non-surgical approach should be considered for the management of these lesions. The traditional aspiration technique involves creation of buccal and palatal wounds that can cause considerable discomfort for the patient. This case report describes a simple aspiration technique achieved through the root canal space, which might hasten osseous regeneration, whilst eliminating the need for periapical surgery. KEY LEARNING POINTS: Non-surgical techniques can aid in healing of periapical lesions. Non-surgical approaches should be considered before resorting to surgery.

A case of ATLL (adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma) mimicking odontogenic infection.

A case of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) in which cheek swelling was the initial symptom is presented. A 44-year-old man referred to our hospital with swelling in his right cheek, and a dental infection was suspected by a previous physician. Computerized tomographic scans and magnetic resonance imaging revealed tumorous lesions from the right alveolus of the maxilla to the anterior and posterior walls of the maxillary sinus. Anti-HTLV-1 antibodies were positive, and the level of sIL-2R was high; other laboratory test results were normal., based on immunohistochemical results on a specimen biopsy, the patient was diagnosed with a lymphoma-type ATLL. Immediately, the patient was treated in the department of hematologic medicine. After several courses of multiagent chemotherapy, 27 Gy radiation therapy was directed to the maxilla. However, remission was not achieved. Cord blood transplantation was subsequently performed, but his general condition gradually worsened until he died 7 months after his initial visit.

Cone beam computed tomography radiation dose and image quality assessments.

Diagnostic radiology has undergone profound changes in the last 30 years. New technologies are available to the dental field, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) as one of the most important. CBCT is a catch-all term for a technology comprising a variety of machines differing in many respects: patient positioning, volume size (FOV), radiation quality, image capturing and reconstruction, image resolution and radiation dose. When new technology is introduced one must make sure that diagnostic accuracy is better or at least as good as the one it can be expected to replace. The CBCT brand tested was two versions of Accuitomo (Morita, Japan): 3D Accuitomo with an image intensifier as detector, FOV 3 cm x 4 cm and 3D Accuitomo FPD with a flat panel detector, FOVs 4 cm x 4 cm and 6 cm x 6 cm. The 3D Accuitomo was compared with intra-oral radiography for endodontic diagnosis in 35 patients with 46 teeth analyzed, of which 41 were endodontically treated. Three observers assessed the images by consensus. The result showed that CBCT imaging was superior with a higher number of teeth diagnosed with periapical lesions (42 vs 32 teeth). When evaluating 3D Accuitomo examinations in the posterior mandible in 30 patients, visibility of marginal bone crest and mandibular canal, important anatomic structures for implant planning, was high with good observer agreement among seven observers. Radiographic techniques have to be evaluated concerning radiation dose, which requires well-defined and easy-to-use methods. Two methods: CT dose index (CTDI), prevailing method for CT units, and dose-area product (DAP) were evaluated for calculating effective dose (E) for both units. An asymmetric dose distribution was revealed when a clinical situation was simulated. Hence, the CTDI method was not applicable for these units with small FOVs. Based on DAP values from 90 patient examinations effective dose was estimated for three diagnostic tasks: implant planning in posterior mandible and examinations of impacted lower third molars and retained upper cuspids. It varied between 11-77 microSv. Radiation dose should be evaluated together with image quality. Images of a skull phantom were obtained with both units varying tube voltage, tube current, degree of rotation and FOVs. Seven observers assessed subjective image quality using a six-point rating scale for two diagnostic tasks: periapical diagnosis and implant planning in the posterior part of the jaws. Intra-observer agreement was good and inter-observer agreement moderate. Periapical diagnosis was found to, regardless of jaw, require higher exposure parameters compared to implant planning. Implant planning in the lower jaw required higher exposure parameters compared to upper jaw. Substantial dose reduction could be made without loss of diagnostic information by using a rotation of 180 degrees, in particular implant planning in upper jaw. CBCT with small FOVs was found to be well-suited for periapical diagnosis and implant planning. The CTDI method is not applicable estimating effective dose for these units. Based on DAP values effective dose varied between 11-77 microSv (ICRP 60, 1991) in a retrospectively selected patient material. Adaptation of exposure parameters to diagnostic task can give substantial dose reduction.

Effects of induced periapical abscesses on rat pregnancy outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the effects of induced periapical abscesses on pregnant rats. DESIGN: In 1/2 of the animals (n=16), the pulps of the maxillary right molars were exposed to the oral environment, which resulted in a periapical abscess. The other 1/2 (n=16) were sham-operated. 1/2 of the animals of both groups became pregnant 2 weeks later. The pregnancy duration, and weight and number of pups were assessed at delivery. Serum, liver and uterine horn samples were taken from all animals at euthanasia and serum IL-6, endothelin-1, TNF-alpha, IL-10, cortisol and insulin were determined by ELISA. Liver concentrations of IL-6, CRP and IL-6 and uterine horn concentrations of IL-6, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), TNF-alpha, IL-10 and IL-1-beta were assessed by ELISA. Blood glucose concentrations were determined using a glucometer. Outcome variables were compared by factorial ANOVA, a post hoc Tukey test, and Pearson's correlation test. RESULTS: Pregnant rats with periapical abscesses had a significantly longer pregnancy and delivered pups with a significantly higher birthweight (p<0.05). They had significantly higher concentrations of IL-6, VEGF, IL-1-beta, and IL-10 within the uterine horn and IL-6, CRP and TNF-alpha within the liver (p<0.01). Blood glucose and serum TNF-alpha, IL-6, endothelin-1, IL-10, and insulin concentrations were significantly higher in the pregnant animals with pulpal abscesses (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: The significant increase in serum TNF-alpha, taken together with significant increases in blood glucose and serum insulin concentrations, suggest that animals with induced periapical abscesses developed insulin resistance, which significantly affected their pregnancy outcomes.

Orbital abscess from an odontogenic infection.

An orbital abscess is a rare but serious complication of an odontogenic infection, which can lead to loss of vision or worse. This paper presents a case of orbital abscess secondary to an infection from the upper molar teeth, which extended to the retobulbar and posterosuperior region of the orbit, close to the superior orbital fissure. The infection spreaded to the pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossa and then to the orbit via the inferior orbital fissure. This paper reviews the clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, route of spread, value of serial CT scanning, treatment and possible complications.

Limited cone-beam CT and intraoral radiography for the diagnosis of periapical pathology.

OBJECTIVE: To compare intraoral periapical radiography with 3D images for the diagnosis of periapical pathology. STUDY DESIGN: Maxillary molars and premolars and mandibular molars with endodontic problems and examined with periapical radiographs and a 3D technique (3D Accuitomo) were retrospectively selected and evaluated by 3 oral radiologists. Numbers of roots and root canals, presence and location of periapical lesions, and their relation to neighboring structures were studied. RESULTS: Among 46 teeth, both techniques demonstrated lesions in 32 teeth, and an additional 10 teeth were found in the Accuitomo images. As regards individual roots, 53 lesions were found in both techniques, and 33 more roots were found to have lesions in Accuitomo images. Artefacts were sometimes a problem in Accuitomo images. In 32 of the 46 cases, all observers agreed that additional clinically relevant information was obtained with Accuitomo images. CONCLUSIONS: A high-resolution 3D technique can be of value for diagnosis of periapical problems.

Three-dimensional visualization of a mandibular first molar with three distal roots using computer-aided rapid prototyping.

Nonsurgical endodontic therapy of a right mandibular first molar with 3 distal roots was successfully performed with the aid of magnification. 3D data (DICOM format) of the tooth were obtained from a CT HighSpeed Advantage and a Denta Scan program produced by GE Medical Systems. The CT protocol used for this procedure involved a slit thickness of 1 mm. The 3D digital data obtained were fed into a visualization program (V-works; Cybermed Co) and then exported to the rapid prototyping machine for fabrication of the actual-sized tooth model. The material for the model-making process was starch. The 3D digital visualization and the computer-aided rapid prototyping (CARP) model clearly showed 3 separate distal roots (distobuccal, distolingual, and middle distal). The CARP technique seems to be a useful imaging technology to document unusual root anatomy in clinical dentistry.