Are electronic apex locators accurate in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies? A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies.

BACKGROUND: The lack of a well-defined apical constriction in primary teeth raises concerns regarding the accuracy of electronic apex locators (EALs) for measuring working length. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the accuracy of EALs in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies. METHODS: Two reviewers searched ten databases up to September 2021. Clinical studies evaluating the accuracy of the electronic measurement of working length in primary teeth pulpectomies were included. Studies without a comparison group, with samples smaller than ten root canals, and that did not use a multiple frequency EAL were excluded. A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the paired differences in mean lengths between measurements obtained by electronic and comparative methods. In addition, a meta-analysis of proportion was applied according to the level of difference between the measures. The risk of bias and applicability of the studies were assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. The certainty of evidence was assessed with the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. RESULTS: Twenty-nine studies were included in the qualitative analysis and twenty-three in the quantitative analysis. The methods of comparison for the electronic measurement were the radiographic method, radiovisiographic, scanning electron microscopy, and direct visualization. The meta-analysis showed that the electronic measurement tends to be shorter than radiographic measurement, while the other methods showed no difference. The proportion analysis showed a higher pooled proportion of difference values between electronic and comparative measurements within -0.5 to +0.5 mm (69.31%). The certainty of the evidence suggested very low confidence in estimating the outcome. DISCUSSION: The results of this review denote a good performance of the EALs in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies. However, these results are based on clinical studies with low methodological quality and high heterogeneity, which require careful interpretation for clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS: Although the results suggest acceptable accuracy of EALs in determining working length in primary teeth pulpectomies, the low quality of the included studies and the very low certainty of the evidence require clinicians to interpret these results with caution. More robust evidence is required to support that these devices are accurate for primary teeth. REGISTRATION: CRD42021277414 (PROSPERO).

Introduction of nickel titanium rotary instruments to undergraduate students: afour-yearclinical experience / Introdução de instrumentos rotários de níquel titânio para alunos de graduação: quatro anos de experiência clínica

Many studies address the quality of root canal treatments, but few refer to endodontics usingrotatory techniques performed by noviceoperators. This study evaluatedthe performance of undergraduates in their first contact with rotary root canal instrumentation concerningthe findings of the final periapical radiograph, and thepostendodontic treatment pain.A longitudinal observational studywas performed on periapical radiographs of 491teethfrom 450 patientssubmitted toroot canal treatmentby undergraduate students from 2015 to 2018. The analysis of the length of root canal filling followed the criteria: (i) acceptable, ifperiapical radiograph presentsroot filling ending 0 -1 mm short of radiographic apex; (ii) over, if periapical radiograph presentsroot filling ending beyond the radiographic apex; and (iii) under, ifperiapical radiograph presentsroot filling ending > 1 mm short of radiographic apex. Evaluation of postendodontic treatment painwas categorized into either absence or presenceof pain. Adequate length root canal filling was observed in 65.9% of the cases (324 teeth). Periapical lesions presenceand dimensions did not interfere to the obturation quality.Statistical relation was found between the pulp condition and postendodontic treatment pain. Thepresence of pain was observed in 4.7% of the vital teeth and 0.3% of non-vital teeth. The presence of periapical lesion did not influence postoperative pain.AdequatelengthrootcanalfillingwasobservedinmostcasesandNitTi rotary instrumentation hadapplicability in undergraduate programs, even with novice operators. Besides that, pulp condition had an effect on post endodontic pain (AU).

Muitos estudos abordam a qualidade dos tratamentos de canal radicular, mas poucos se referem à endodontia por meio de técnicas rotatórias realizada por operadores novatos. Este estudo avaliou o desempenho de graduandos no primeiro contato com a instrumentação endodôntica em relação aos achados da radiografia periapical final e à dor pós-tratamento endodôntico. Um estudo observacional longitudinal foi realizado em radiografias periapicais de 491 dentes de 450pacientes submetidos a tratamento endodôntico por estudantes de graduação no período de 2015 a 2018. A análise do comprimento da obturação de canais radiculares obedeceu aos critérios: (i) aceitável, se a radiografia periapical apresentasse término de obturação 0 -1 mm aquém do ápice radiográfico; (ii) acima, se a radiografia periapical apresentasse obturação que termina além do ápice radiográfico; e (iii) abaixo, se a radiografia periapicalapresentasse obturação, terminando > 1 mm aquém do ápice radiográfico. A avaliação da dor pós-operatória foi categorizada em ausência ou presença de dor. A obturação de canais radiculares de comprimento adequado foi observada em 65,9% dos casos (324 dentes). A presença e as dimensões das lesões periapicais não interferiram na qualidade da obturação. Foi encontrada relação estatística entre a condição pulpar e a dor pós-tratamento endodôntico. Presença de dor foi observada em 4,7% dos dentes vitais e 0,3% dos não vitais. A presença de lesão periapical não influenciou na dor pós-operatória. O comprimento de trabalho adequado foi observado na maioria dos casos e a instrumentação rotatória NitTi teve aplicabilidade em programas de graduação, mesmo com operadores iniciantes. Além disso, a condição pulpar afetou a dor pós-operatória (AU).

Traumatismo em dente com rizogênese incompleta: caso clínico / Traumatism in tooth with incomplete rizogenesis: clinical case

O traumatismo dentário acontece de maneira frequente, tendo maior prevalência em incisivos centrais, podendo ocorrer de várias formas, acometendo o tecido duro e o tecido de sustentação do dente. A severidade do trauma pode ocasionar um processo degenerativo ou uma lesão irreversível até a mortificação da polpa, por isso deve-se observar o estágio de desenvolvimento do dente para correta terapêutica diante de uma rizogênese completa ou incompleta. A necrose pulpar em um dente com ápice incompleto paralisa o seu processo de desenvolvimento o que torna necessário a realização da apicificação. O objetivo desse presente trabalho é relatar um caso clínico de traumatismo em um dente com rizogênese incompleta e a conduta terapêutica instituída para promover a apicificação do mesmo. Entretanto, Durante o tratamento foi um grande desafio promover o fechamento do ápice que fora paralisado após o trauma. Portanto, foi preciso realizar várias sessões de medicação intracanal com hidróxido de cálcio que é o material mais indicado para induzir a formação de barreira calcificada para fechamento completo do ápice(AU)

The dental trauma occurs frequently, having a higher prevalence in central incisors, and can occur in several ways, affecting the hard tissue and the tooth support tissue. The severity of the trauma can cause a degenerative process or an irreversible lesion until the mortification of the pulp, so the stage of development of the tooth must be observed for correct therapy in the presence of complete or incomplete rhizogenesis. Pulp necrosis in a tooth with an incomplete apex paralyzes its development process, which makes it necessary to perform the inoculation. The objective of this present work is to report a clinical case of trauma in a tooth with incomplete rhizogenesis and the therapeutic conduct instituted to promote the apicification of the same. However, during the treatment it was a great challenge to promote the closure of the apex that had been paralyzed after the trauma. Therefore, it was necessary to perform several intracanal medication sessions with calcium hydroxide, which is the most suitable material to induce the formation of a calcified barrier for complete closure of the apex(AU)

Comparação da acuracidade de localizadores eletrônicos foraminais / Accuracy comparison of electronic apex locators

A Odontometria é uma etapa importante para o sucesso da terapia endodôntica e, para isso, localizadores eletrônicos foraminais são utilizados. O método eletrônico, na obtenção do comprimento de trabalho (CT), tem se mostrado seguro e eficaz, possibilitando uma correta mensuração do dente. Foram comparadas duas marcas diferentes de localizadores eletrônicos foraminais utilizados na obtenção do CT antes e após o preparo cervical e também foram avaliadas possíveis diferenças entre a acuracidade dos aparelhos. Foram utilizados 24 incisivos centrais superiores extraídos obtidos em um banco de dentes. Os dentes foram inseridos em uma base experimental composta por alginato. Imediatamente após o acesso coronário, efetuaram-se as medições eletrônicas iniciais, tendo como critério a marcação "ápice" dos aparelhos NovApex e FinePex. Em sequência, o preparo cervical foi executado e uma nova medida realizada com os dois localizadores eletrônicos. Posteriormente, para a confirmação visual, uma lima tipo Kerr #10 foi introduzida até sua extremidade ser observada na saída foraminal com aumento de oito vezes. Então, posicionou-se o stop de borracha no bordo incisal e mediu-se esse comprimento com uma régua endodôntica milimetrada, obtendo-se o comprimento real do dente. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente e não verificou-se diferença estatística quanto ao tipo de localizador foraminal utilizado (p=0,927) para esse grupo de dentes. O preparo cervical também não influenciou na medida (p=0,157). O presente estudo demonstrou acurácia de 100% para o localizador NovApex e 99,38% para o localizador FinePex, mostrando ser esse um método eficiente para ser empregado na terapia endodôntica (AU).

Odontometry is an important step for the success of endodontic therapy and, for this, foraminal electronic locators are used. The electronic method, in obtaining the working length (WL), has been shown to be safe and effective, allowing a correct measurement of the tooth. Two different brands of foraminal electronic locators used to obtain the WL before and after cervical preparation were compared and also it was evaluated possible differences between the accuracy of the devices. Twenty four extracted central incisors obtained in a tooth-bank were used. Teeth were inserted into an experimental base composed of alginate. Immediately after the coronary access, the initial electronic measurements were made using the "apex" marking of the NovApex and FinePex locators. In sequence, cervical preparation was performed and a new measurement performed with the two electronic locators. Afterward, for visual confirmation, a Kerr #10 file was introduced until its end was observed at the foraminal output with magnification of eight times. Rubber stop was placed on the incisal edge and the length was measured with a millimeter endodontic ruler, obtaining the actual length of the tooth. The data were analyzed statistically, there was no statistical difference regarding the type of foraminal locator used (p=0.927) for this group of teeth. The cervical preparation also did not influence the measurement (p=0.157). The present study demonstrated an average accuracy of 100% for the NovApex locator and 99.38% for the FinePex locator, proving to be an efficient method to be employed in endodontic therapy (AU).

Evaluation of Apically Extruded Debris Using Continuous Rotation, Reciprocation, or Adaptive Motion.

The aim of this study was to compare the amount of apically extruded debris during root canal instrumentation using ProTaper Next (PTN), Twisted File (TF) Adaptive, and Reciproc instruments. Forty-five extracted human maxillary canines were selected and randomly assigned into 3 groups. The root canals were prepared using PTN instruments with continuous rotation (n=15), TF Adaptive instruments with adaptive motion (n=15), Reciproc instruments with reciprocating motion (n=15). During the preparations, canals were irrigated using distilled water and material extruded apically was collected in pre-weighed Eppendorf tubes. After a 5-day drying period in an incubator, the tubes were weighed and the dry weight of the extruded debris was calculated. Data distributions were assessed via the Shapiro-Wilk test, and groups were compared via the Kruskal-Wallis test. The greatest amount of debris extruded by TF Adaptive and the least by PTN, but the difference was insignificant between groups (p=0.259). All instrumentation systems were associated with debris extrusion.

Evaluation of apically extruded debris using continuous rotation, reciprocation, or adaptive motion

Abstract The aim of this study was to compare the amount of apically extruded debris during root canal instrumentation using ProTaper Next (PTN), Twisted File (TF) Adaptive, and Reciproc instruments. Forty-five extracted human maxillary canines were selected and randomly assigned into 3 groups. The root canals were prepared using PTN instruments with continuous rotation (n=15), TF Adaptive instruments with adaptive motion (n=15), Reciproc instruments with reciprocating motion (n=15). During the preparations, canals were irrigated using distilled water and material extruded apically was collected in pre-weighed Eppendorf tubes. After a 5-day drying period in an incubator, the tubes were weighed and the dry weight of the extruded debris was calculated. Data distributions were assessed via the Shapiro-Wilk test, and groups were compared via the Kruskal-Wallis test. The greatest amount of debris extruded by TF Adaptive and the least by PTN, but the difference was insignificant between groups (p=0.259). All instrumentation systems were associated with debris extrusion.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a quantidade de detritos apicalmente extruídos durante a instrumentação do canal radicular usando os instrumentos ProTaper Next (PTN), Twisted File (TF) Adaptative e Reciproc. Quarenta e cinco caninos superiores humanos extraídos foram selecionados e distribuídos aleatoriamente em 3 grupos. Os canais radiculares foram preparados utilizando instrumentos PTN com rotação contínua (n = 15), instrumentos TF Adaptative com movimento adaptativo (n = 15), instrumentos Reciproc com movimento oscilatório (n = 15). Durante os preparos, os canais foram irrigados com água destilada e o material extruído foi coletado apicalmente em tubos Eppendorf pré-pesados. Após um período de secagem de 5 dias numa incubadora, os tubos foram pesados e o peso seco dos resíduos extruídos foi calculado. A distribuição dos dados foi avaliada pelo teste de Shapiro-Wilk e os grupos foram comparados pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis. A maior quantidade de detritos extruídos foi proporcionada pelo TF Adaptive e a menor pelo PTN, mas a diferença não foi estatisticamente significante entre os grupos (p=0,259). Todos os sistemas de instrumentação promoveram extrusão de detritos apicalmente.

The Accuracy of a New Cone-beam Computed Tomographic Software in the Preoperative Working Length Determination Ex Vivo.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the accuracy of 3D Endo software (Dentsply Sirona, Salzburg, Austria) to determine the working length when using preoperative cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) scans of extracted teeth, compared with conventional CBCT software and an electronic apex locator (EAL). METHODS: CBCT scans of 30 premolars were obtained. Using OnDemand3D software (Cybermed, Seoul, Korea), the measurement obtained from the coronal reference to the apical foramen (AF) was recorded as the conventional CBCT length. Then, using 3D Endo software (Dentsply Sirona), the suggested length (3D-SL) and the operator-adjusted length (3D-OL) were obtained. Teeth were accessed, and the actual length was measured. Finally, the teeth were embedded in alginate to obtain the electronic length (EL) using the EAL Root ZX (J Morita, Tokyo, Japan). The means of the absolute values and the percentages of distribution of the tested measurement methods were compared to the actual length. RESULTS: No difference was found regarding the mean measurements (analysis of variance, P > .05). All the CBCT measurements presented a high reliability (Dahlberg's formula). The measurements within a ±0.5-mm range from the AF were 86.6% for the 3D-SL, 80% for the 3D-OL and EL, and 73.3% for the CBCT length. The EL presented significantly fewer underestimated measurements (P < .05). The 3D-OL and 3D-SL presented significantly fewer measurements beyond the AF (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: The preoperative working length determination using 3D Endo was reliable and similar to conventional CBCT software. However, the combined use of CBCT with an EAL is required to increase the accuracy in the location of the AF.

Effect of large instrument use on shaping ability and debris extrusion of rotary and reciprocating systems.

AIM: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of large instrument use on the shaping ability and apical debris extrusion of rotary and reciprocating systems in oval-shaped root canals. METHODS: Forty-five mandibular premolars, with an 18-mm long, oval-shaped single canal, and apical diameter ranging from 300 to 350 µm, were separated into three groups (n=15), according to the system used: ProTaper Universal group, F5 (0.50/0.05); ProTaper Next (PTN group), X5 (0.50/0.06); and Reciproc (RC group), R50 (0.50/0.05). Cone-beam computed tomography was performed before and after preparation to analyze apical transportation (AT), centering ability (CA), and change in root canal diameter (CRCD). For evaluating apical debris extrusion, the roots were coupled to pre-weighed glass receptacles to collect the extruded debris during preparation. RESULTS: All systems promoted AT and apical debris extrusion; the latter was higher for the PTN group (P<.05). No system presented perfect CA. The RC group demonstrated the largest CRCD (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: As consequences of their use, the large instruments promoted undesirable AT and debris extrusion, irrespective of the system used to perform root canal preparation. Moreover, no system was able to remain perfectly centralized within the root canal.

Análise retrospectiva do reparo clínico e radiográfico em cirurgias paraendodônticas / Retrospective analysis of clinical and radiographic repair in paraendodotic surgeries

Este estudo avaliou o índice de sucesso em cirurgias paraendodônticas executadas pelos alunos do Curso de Especialização em Endodontia do Centro de Estudos Odontológicos Meridional - CEOM, Passo Fundo/RS, através de controle clínico e radiográfico em um período de até três anos de proservação. Os pacientes que realizaram as cirurgias paraendodônticas foram rechamados e avaliados com um exame clínico e radiográfico da região operada para determinar o grau de reparo radiográfico de acordo com Rud et al.19 (1972) que classificam em Grupo I - Reparo Completo, Grupo II - Reparo Incompleto (cicatriz fibrosa), Grupo III - Reparo Incerto e Grupo IV - Reparo Insatisfatório (fracasso/insucesso). Após coleta dos dados, as radiografias de proservação de cada caso foram observadas por cirurgiões dentistas que definiram se houve ou não regressão das lesões através da análise das radiografias pré e pós- -cirúrgicas associadas aos dados clínicos. Do total de 43 pacientes submetidos à cirurgia no período de 3 anos, 15 pacientes retornaram para exame clínico e radiográfico. Dos 15 pacientes, um total de 17 dentes foram incluídos na amostra. Enquadraram-se no Grupo I - 11 dentes (64,7%), no Grupo II - 3 dentes (17,6%), no Grupo III - 2 dentes (11,8%) e no Grupo IV - 1 dente (5,9%). A taxa de sucesso agrupando-se os Grupos I e II foi 82,35%. O índice de insucesso foi 17,65%. Concluiu-se que o tratamento cirúrgico como complementar ao tratamento endodôntico pode ser uma alternativa na manutenção dos dentes com saúde e função, apresentando boas taxas de sucesso (AU).

This study evaluated the success rate in paraendodontic surgeries performed by students of the Endodontic Specialization Course of the Center for Southern Dental Studies - CEOM, Passo Fundo/RS, through clinical and radiographic control in a period of up to three years of proservation. Patients who underwent paraendodontic surgeries were recalled and evaluated with a clinical and radiographic examination of the operated region to determine the degree of radiographic repair according to Rud et al.19 (1972), which classify as Group I - Complete Repair, Group II - Incomplete Repair (fibrous scar), Group III - Uncertain Repair, and Group IV - Unsatisfactory Repair (failure/failure). After data collection, the radiographs of each case were reviewed by dental surgeons who defined whether or not there was regression of the lesions through the analysis of pre and post-surgical radiographs associated with the clinical data. Of the 43 patients who underwent surgery within 3 years, 15 patients returned for clinical and radiographic examination. Of the 15 patients, total of 17 teeth were included in the sample. Group I - 11 teeth (64.7%), Group II - 3 teeth (17.6%), Group III - 2 teeth (11.8%), and Group IV - 1 tooth (5.9%). The success rate grouping Groups I and II was 82.35%. The failure rate was 17.65%. It was concluded that the surgical treatment as a complement to the endodontic treatment can be an alternative in the maintenance of the teeth with health and function, presenting good success rates (AU).

An Innovative Regenerative Endodontic Procedure Using Leukocyte and Platelet-rich Fibrin Associated with Apical Surgery: A Case Report.

Regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs) associated with apical surgery could represent an alternative treatment strategy for patients whose teeth present incomplete root formation and extensive apical lesions. Leukocyte platelet-rich fibrin (L-PRF) has potential benefits in REPs; it could promote apical root formation and optimal bone healing. The aim of this case report was to describe innovative regenerative endodontic therapy using L-PRF in the root canal and an extensive apical lesion in an immature tooth with dens invaginatus and asymptomatic apical periodontitis. A healthy 20-year-old woman was referred to the dental clinic of the Universidad de Los Andes, Santiago, Chile, for endodontic treatment in tooth # 22 with incomplete root development and an extensive apical lesion. The diagnosis was asymptomatic apical periodontitis associated with dens invaginatus type II. The patient was treated with an innovative approach using L-PRF in REPs associated with apical surgery. Follow-ups were performed at 6 months and 1 year later. They included periapical radiographs, cone-beam computed tomographic imaging, sensitivity, and vitality tests. The clinical evaluations performed at 6 months and 1 year revealed an absence of symptoms. The radiographic evaluations showed that the apical lesion was resolved. The cone-beam images indicated that the root length increased and the walls had thickened. The sensitivity tests were positive, and the laser Doppler flowmetry showed positive blood flow after 1 year. The success of the results in this case report indicate that L-PRF can be used as a complement in apical surgery and REPs and could provide an innovative alternative treatment strategy for complex clinical cases like these.

Apical Transportation, Centering Ratio, and Volume Increase after Manual, Rotary, and Reciprocating Instrumentation in Curved Root Canals: Analysis by Micro-computed Tomographic and Digital Subtraction Radiography.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate apical transportation (AT), centering ratio (CR), and volume increase (VI) produced after instrumentation of mesiobuccal canals of maxillary molars with hand files, rotary, and reciprocating instruments using micro-computed tomographic (micro-CT) imaging and to demonstrate the ability of digital subtraction radiography (DSR) to evaluate AT. METHODS: Forty-five canals were randomly assigned to either group K, manual K-files; PTN, ProTaper Next (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland); or Rec, Reciproc (n = 15 for each group) for preparation. Master apical files were #25, X2 (#25/06), and R25 (#25/08), respectively. Micro-CT imaging was used to measure AT (mm) and CR (mm) at 3 different locations (1, 4, and 7 mm from the apex). VI (mm3) was measured for each root third and for the whole canal. DSR (mesiodistal and buccolingual projections) was used to measure AT at 1 mm from the apex. RESULTS: AT and CR values were statistically similar across the groups at 1, 4, and 7 mm. AT results obtained for the different locations were similar within each group; CR, in turn, showed statistically lower values at 1 mm. VI was statistically similar in all groups. Both DSR and micro-CT imaging showed that AT always occurred on the outside of canal curvature. The highest mean value obtained for AT was 0.215 mm. CONCLUSIONS: AT, CR, and VI were similar for the K, PTN, and Rec groups. AT results were clinically irrelevant. DSR was as effective as micro-CT imaging in AT analysis and could be considered as an alternative method for assessing this outcome.

Comparison of apically extruded debris after large apical preparations by full-sequence rotary and single-file reciprocating systems.

AIM: To evaluate the amount of apically extruded debris produced by ProTaper Universal (PTU), ProTaper Next (PTN), WaveOne (WO) and Reciproc (R) systems after large apical preparations. METHODOLOGY: Sixty mandibular premolars with a single canal were selected and randomly assigned into 4 groups (n = 15) according to the system used for root canal preparation: PTU, PTN, WO and R groups. Canal preparations were performed up to size 40 in each group. Distilled water was used as an irrigant, and the apically extruded debris from each tooth was collected in pre-weighted glass vials and dried. The average weight of debris was assessed using a microbalance, and the data were analysed statistically using one-way analysis of variance and the post hoc Tukey multiple comparison test (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The PTU system was associated with significantly more debris than the other systems (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found between PTN, WO and R systems (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: All systems were associated with apical debris extrusion when canals were prepared to a large apical size. The PTU system was associated with more debris extrusion.

Regenerative Endodontic Treatment as a Retreatment Option for a Tooth with Open Apex - A Case Report.

Treatment of non-vital immature teeth with apical periodontitis has always been a challenge in Endodontics. Regenerative endodontic treatment (RET) has been successfully used for the management of these cases. The aim of this study is to present a case of RET used for the retreatment of a previously endodontically treated permanent tooth with an open apex. A 14-year-old boy with a poor endodontic treatment done on his maxillary right central incisor developed symptomatic apical periodontitis. Radiographically, incomplete root development with thin dentinal walls and an open apex were evident. After accessing and removing previous filling materials, the canal was copiously irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. A triple antibiotic paste was placed inside the canal and left for 15 days. After removal of the antibiotic mixture, bleeding was induced into the canal by passing a hand file out of the apex. A collagen membrane barrier was placed over the blood clot, followed by sealing with mineral trioxide aggregate. Access was sealed with permanent filling materials. Clinical examination at 12, 24 and 36 months revealed no symptoms. Radiographic examination showed resolution of the periapical lesion and apical closure. Sensitivity tests with cold and an electric pulp test elicited a negative response at all recall periods. On the basis of long-term results, RET may be an effective option for the retreatment of an immature permanent tooth with a failed previous treatment and periapical periodontitis.

Regenerative Endodontic Treatment as a Retreatment Option for a Tooth with Open Apex - A Case Report

Abstract: Treatment of non-vital immature teeth with apical periodontitis has always been a challenge in Endodontics. Regenerative endodontic treatment (RET) has been successfully used for the management of these cases. The aim of this study is to present a case of RET used for the retreatment of a previously endodontically treated permanent tooth with an open apex. A 14-year-old boy with a poor endodontic treatment done on his maxillary right central incisor developed symptomatic apical periodontitis. Radiographically, incomplete root development with thin dentinal walls and an open apex were evident. After accessing and removing previous filling materials, the canal was copiously irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. A triple antibiotic paste was placed inside the canal and left for 15 days. After removal of the antibiotic mixture, bleeding was induced into the canal by passing a hand file out of the apex. A collagen membrane barrier was placed over the blood clot, followed by sealing with mineral trioxide aggregate. Access was sealed with permanent filling materials. Clinical examination at 12, 24 and 36 months revealed no symptoms. Radiographic examination showed resolution of the periapical lesion and apical closure. Sensitivity tests with cold and an electric pulp test elicited a negative response at all recall periods. On the basis of long-term results, RET may be an effective option for the retreatment of an immature permanent tooth with a failed previous treatment and periapical periodontitis.

Scanning electronic microscopy analysis of the apical surface after of root-end resection with different methods.

To compare the time dispensed and the surface characteristics when a root-end resection was performed with a surgical ultrasonic device (VarioSurg, NSK, Japan) or with a Zekrya bur. Forty distal roots of freshly extracted mandibular molars were selected and divided into four different groups: (G1) stainless steel insert with ultrasound; (G2) diamond insert with ultrasound; (G3) stainless steel and diamond inserts with ultrasound, and (G4) Zekrya burs. The time required for the root-end resection was timed and the surface characteristics were evaluated via scanning electronic microscopy. The median times for the root-end resections were: 115.9 s for G1, 249.8 s for G2, 112.7 s for G3, and 7.44 s for G4, the latter presented a smoother root-end surface. There was no statistically significant difference in the comparisons between G3 group and G4 group (Zekrya burs). The other groups where the root-end resections were with ultrasonic devices proportioned a prolonged time to resection with irregular surfaces.

Comparação da confiabilidade dos localizadores apicais Novapex® e Propex II® na Odontometria - estudo in vivo / Comparison of the reliability of Novapex® and Propex II® apex locators in Odontometry- in vivo study

Este artigo objetivou comparar, radiograficamente, a confiabilidade do Novapex® e do Propex II® no procedimento de Odontometria. O comprimento de trabalho de 30 elementos dentários foi determinado pela técnica radiográfica e pela localização foraminal eletrônica. Uma lima tipo K #15 foi introduzida em cada canal radicular, após preparo cervical, e quando da indicação do ápice dentário no painel de cada um dos aparelhos foi feita uma tomada radiográfica. A análise das imagens foi feita com o programa ImageTool3.00, a fim de serem comparados, entre os dispositivos, os comprimentos obtidos desde o final da lima ao ligamento periodontal. A análise dos dados se deu com o programa Statistica v.8.0. O teste de Wilcoxon revelou valores de p=0,305 e p= 0,823 quanto às medidas feitas nos diferentes intervalos de tempo entre o Novapex® e o Propex II®, respectivamente. A confiabilidade na detecção do forame apical foi de 76,6% para o Novapex e 70% para o Propex II, com tolerância de ± 0,5 mm. Contudo, quando comparados ao teste de Wilcoxon, não se observou diferença (p=0,687). A correlação entre os métodos, pelo teste de Spearman, indicou valor de p=0,091 e r=0,33. Os localizadores apicais se mostraram confiáveis ao que se destinam, sem diferenças estatisticamente significativas quando comparadas as performances de ambos na Odontometria.

This article aimed to compare the reliability of Novapex and Propex II in the Odontometry procedure by analyzing radiographs. The working length of 30 teeth was determined by the radiographic technique and by the electronic foramen localization. A K-type file #15 was introduced in each canal, and after cervical preparation, when the apex localization was indicated in the device's panel, an x-ray was made. The analysis of the images was performed with the program ImageTool 3.00, in order to compare the devices regarding the lengths obtained since the end of the file and the periodontal ligament. The data analysis was done with the program Statistica v.8.0. The Wilcoxon test revealed values of p=0.305 and p= 0.823 on the measures taken at different time intervals between the Novapex and the Propex II, respectively. The reliability in locating the apical foramen was 76.6% to the Novapex and 70% to the Propex II, with tolerance of ± 0.5 mm. However, when compared by Wilcoxon test there was no difference (p=0.687). The correlation between methods, by Spearman's test, indicated value of p=0.091 and r=0.33. Apex locators proved to be efficient without significant statistical difference when their performances in the Odontometry were compared.

Influence of apical foramen lateral opening and file size on cemental canal instrumentation.

Since instrumentation of the apical foramen has been suggested for cleaning and disinfection of the cemental canal, selection of the file size and position of the apical foramen have challenging steps. This study analyzed the influence of apical foramen lateral opening and file size can exert on cemental canal instrumentation. Thirty-four human maxillary central incisors were divided in two groups: Group 1 (n=17), without flaring, and Group 2 (n=17), with flaring with LA Axxess burs. K-files of increasing diameters were progressively inserted into the canal until binding at the apical foramen was achieved and tips were visible and bonded with ethyl cyanoacrylate adhesive. Roots/files set were cross-sectioned 5 mm from the apex. Apices were examined by scanning electron microscopy at ×140 and digital images were captured. Data were analyzed statistically by Student's t test and Fisher's exact test at 5% significance level. SEM micrographs showed that 19 (56%) apical foramina emerged laterally to the root apex, whereas 15 (44%) coincided with it. Significantly more difficulty to reach the apical foramen was noted in Group 2. Results suggest that the larger the foraminal file size, the more difficult the apical foramen instrumentation may be in laterally emerged cemental canals.

Non-surgical retreatment of a failed apicoectomy without retrofilling using white mineral trioxide aggregate as an apical barrier.

Root-end resected teeth with persistent apical periodontitis are usually retreated surgically or a combination of non-surgical and surgical retreatment is employed. However, patients are sometimes unwilling to be subjected to a second surgical procedure. The apical barrier technique that is used for apical closure of immature teeth with necrotic pulps may be an alternative to non-surgically retreat a failed apicoectomy. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) has become the material of choice in such cases because of its excellent biocompatibility, sealing ability and osseoinductive properties. This case report describes the non-surgical retreatment of a failed apicoectomy with no attempt at retrofilling of a maxillary central incisor. White MTA was used to induce apical closure of the wide resected apical area. Four-year follow-up examination revealed an asymptomatic, fully functional tooth with a satisfactory healing of the apical lesion. White MTA apical barrier may constitute a reliable and efficient technique to non-surgically retreat teeth with failed root-end resection. The predictability of such a treatment is of great benefit for the patient who is unwilling to be submitted to a second surgical procedure.

Avaliação in vitro da eficiência de três localizadores foraminais eletrônicos / In vitro evaluation of efficiency of three electronic apex locators

O objetivo é avaliar in vitro a eficiência de três localizadores apicais eletrônicos, Bingo 1020, RomiApex A-15, Root ZX II. Para este experimento foram selecionados 30 molares superiores do Banco de Dentes Humanos da Universidade Estadual do Sudoeste da Bahia (BDH-UESB). Após o acesso endodôntico, obteve-se o comprimento através de visualização direta por inserção da Lima K # 10 21 mm até a observação da saída foraminal. Em seguida, as unidades dentárias foram inseridas em esponja vegetal embebida em soro fisiológico, realizando-se assim, a leitura com os localizadores foraminais eletrônicos com o auxílio de uma lima, cujo calibre melhor se ajustasse às paredes do canal radicular. As análises estatísticas foram realizadas pelo programa SPSS 13.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, EUA), sendo os valores do comprimento dos canais radiculares submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA) para determinar possíveis diferenças estatísticas entre os grupos e, posteriormente, ao teste de Tukey. Quanto aos resultados, não houve diferença estatisticamente significante entre os grupos (P>0.05). Os três aparelhos utilizados demonstraram- -se eficientes na determinação do comprimento de trabalho e não houve diferença estatística entre eles

The objective is evaluate in vitro the efficiency of three electronic apex locators, 1020 Bingo, RomiApex A-15, Root ZX II. For this experiment, thirty molar teeth from the Human Teeth Bank of the Southwest State University of Bahia (BDH-UESB) were selected. After endodontic access, the working length was assessed by insertion and direct visualization of the tip of a # 10, 21 mm K file at the foramen. The specimens were then inserted into vegetable sponge soaked in saline solution in order to allow the reading with foraminal electronic locators with the help of a file whose size best suits the root canal walls. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 13.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA), the values of the length of root canals subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) to determine possible statistical differences between groups, and then to Tukey’s post test. No statistically significant differences were found between groups (P> 0.05). The three instruments used were shown to be effective in determining the working length and there was no statistical difference between them

Influence of apical foramen lateral opening and file size on cemental canal instrumentation

Since instrumentation of the apical foramen has been suggested for cleaning and disinfection of the cemental canal, selection of the file size and position of the apical foramen have challenging steps. This study analyzed the influence of apical foramen lateral opening and file size can exert on cemental canal instrumentation. Thirty-four human maxillary central incisors were divided in two groups: Group 1 (n=17), without flaring, and Group 2 (n=17), with flaring with LA Axxess burs. K-files of increasing diameters were progressively inserted into the canal until binding at the apical foramen was achieved and tips were visible and bonded with ethyl cyanoacrylate adhesive. Roots/files set were cross-sectioned 5 mm from the apex. Apices were examined by scanning electron microscopy at ×140 and digital images were captured. Data were analyzed statistically by Student’s t test and Fisher’s exact test at 5% significance level. SEM micrographs showed that 19 (56%) apical foramina emerged laterally to the root apex, whereas 15 (44%) coincided with it. Significantly more difficulty to reach the apical foramen was noted in Group 2. Results suggest that the larger the foraminal file size, the more difficult the apical foramen instrumentation may be in laterally emerged cemental canals.

Tendo em vista que a instrumentação do forame apical tem sido sugerida para a limpeza e desinfecção do canal cementário, a seleção do calibre do instrumento e a posição do forame apical representam passos desafiantes. Este estudo analisou a influência que a saída lateral do forame apical e o calibre do instrumento podem exercer na instrumentação do canal cementário. Trinta e quatro incisivos centrais superiores foram divididos em dois grupos: Grupo 1 (n=17), sem preparo cervical, e Grupo 2 (n=17), com preparo cervical com brocas LA Axxess. Limas K com aumentos de diâmetro foram progressivamente inseridas no canal até ajustar no forame apical e as pontas ficarem visíveis e foram fixadas com adesivo de etil cianoacrilato. Os conjuntos raízes/limas foram seccionados transversalmente a 5 mm aquém do ápice. Os ápices foram examinados por microscopia eletrônica de varredura com aumento de 140x e imagens digitais foram capturadas. Os dados foram examinados estatisticamente pelo teste t de Student e teste exato de Fischer com nível de significância de 5%. A microscopia eletrônica de varredura mostrou que 19 (56%) dos forames apicais saíram lateralmente em relação ao ápice radicular, enquanto que 15 (44%) coincidiram com ele. Dificuldade significantemente maior para chegar ao forame apical foi observada no Grupo 2. Os resultados sugerem que quanto mais calibroso for o instrumento foraminal, mais difícil poderá ser a instrumentação do forame apical em canais cementários que apresentam saída lateral.