Morphological study of pulp cavity anatomy of canine teeth in domestic cats using micro-computed tomography.

An understanding of the pulp cavity anatomy of individual teeth is essential for success during endodontic therapy. The objective of this study was to document pulp cavity anatomy and summarize numerical data of maxillary and mandibular canine teeth of domestic cats using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Thirty-nine canine teeth from eleven domestic cat cadaveric specimens were extracted and prepared for scanning. Segmentation of the pulp cavity was performed using the Avizo (v2022.2) software package. The morphological features of the pulp cavity including overall shape, configuration, presence of apical deltas and lateral canals was recorded. A quantitative analysis was performed on thirty-one teeth to explore associations between pulp cavity volume and length, apical delta length, maximum apical delta foramina number and cusp-to-tip length using a linear mixed model. Correlation between pertinent continuous variables was assessed using a Pearson's correlation test. Most pulp cavities exhibited varying curvature and ranged from a cylindrical configuration in the coronal third to an ovoid configuration in the middle to apical third. A ribbon-like flattened canal was observed in 6/31 teeth (19%). All canine teeth depicted an apical delta with various configurations except for two teeth that showed a single canal exiting at the apex. In 15/31 teeth (48%), the primary root canal within the apical delta could be clearly identified and in 16/31 (52%) the primary root canal was indiscernible. The results showed that the pulp cavities of maxillary canine teeth were significantly larger and longer and the cusp-to-tip length was longer, when compared to mandibular teeth. The apical delta length was negatively correlated to the volume of the pulp cavity. No specimens depicted lateral canals. This study revealed that the anatomy of the canine tooth pulp cavity in cats can vary considerably and should be a consideration when performing thorough debridement, shaping and obturation of the endodontic system.

Comparative Analysis of Three Nickel-Titanium Rotary Files in Severely Curved L-Shaped Root Canals: Preparation Time, Aberrations, and Fracture Rates.

Background: This simulated study of 30 severely curved L-shaped root canals aimed to compare preparation time, aberrations, width measurements, and fractured files of three nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) files, namely, ProTaper, ProTaper Next (PTN), and WaveOne (WO). Methods: Thirty simulated L-curved root canals of resin blocks were randomly divided into three groups. The canals were prepared to a tip size of 25 using ProTaper, PTN, and WO rotary file systems. Pre- and post-operative views for each sample were captured by a professional camera at a standardized distance and position. Blue India ink was injected into the pre-operative canals, and red India ink was injected into the post-operative canals to give a clear superimposition image. Five points were assessed through the halfway of the canal to the orifice (area between the beginning of curvature and apical end point). Preparation time, aberrations, width measurements, and fractured files were recorded and analyzed. Results: Mean preparation time was longest in ProTaper (4.89±0.68 minutes). PTN and WO were the fastest in preparing the canals (about 3 minutes). A statistically significant difference was found between WO and ProTaper & PTN and ProTaper (p=0.000), while the difference was non-significant (p > 0.05) between WO and PTN. Nine aberrations consisting of three zips, one ledge and one outer widening were related to ProTaper, while WO recorded a ledge and fractured file, but for PTN system, it verified an outer widening and ledge. Only one WO file fractured, with no deformation observed in the other instruments. No significance was recorded among the width measurements in the different levels. Conclusion: ProTaper next achieved faster cutting than the ProTaper and WO file systems. PTN maintained the best apical termination position and produced the least canal aberration, followed by WO and ProTaper.

Continuous Wave of Condensation Improves the Filling of Curved Canals: a Micro-CT Study / La condensación de onda contínua mejora el selle de canales curvos: un estudio de micro-CT

Abstract The aim of this study was to compare the filling capacity in curved root canal using a new continuous wave of condensation technique (Termo Pack II, Easy Dental Equipments, Brazil) or lateral compaction. The percentage of voids in the filling of mesial root canals of mandibular molars was assessed by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Mesial root canals (n=24) of mandibular molars with a degree of curvature between 20° and 40° were prepared using rotary system (ProDesign Logic, Easy, Brazil) up to #35, .05 taper. The root canals were filled by using the continuous wave of condensation system or lateral compaction and AH Plus sealer (n=12). Scanning at 9 µm was performed after preparation and after filling by using micro-CT SkyScan 1176. The volumetric percentage of filling material and voids (total length and in each root canal third) were calculated. Data were analyzed using ANOVA/ Tukey and Student's t tests (α=0.05). Before the filling techniques, the root canals volume after preparation was similar (p>0.05). The root canals filled by the continuous wave of condensation technique presented the lowest percentage of voids, and the greatest percentage of filling material in total length and thirds (cervical, middle and apical) (p<0.05). Both techniques were not able of completely filling the root canals. The continuous wave of condensation technique Termo Pack II promoted better root canal filling in curved root canals, when compared with lateral compaction.

Resumen El objetivo de este estudio fue comparar la capacidad de obturación en conductos radiculares curvos utilizando una nueva técnica de condensación de onda continua (Termo Pack II, Easy Dental Equipments, Brasil) vs compactación lateral. El porcentaje de brechas en la obturación de los conductos radiculares mesiales de los molares mandibulares se evaluó mediante microtomografía computarizada (micro-CT). Se prepararon conductos radiculares mesiales (n=24) de molares mandibulares con un grado de curvatura entre 20° y 40° utilizando un sistema rotatorio (ProDesign Logic, Easy, Brasil) al #35, conicidad 0,05. Los conductos radiculares se obturaron utilizando un sistema de condensación de onda contínua o compactación lateral y cemento AH Plus (n=12). Se realizó un escaneo de 9 µm después de la preparación y después de la obturación usando el micro-CT SkyScan 1176. Se calculó el porcentaje volumétrico de material de obturación y vacíos (longitud total y en cada tercio del conducto radicular). Los datos se analizaron utilizando las pruebas ANOVA/Tukey y t de Student (α=0,05). Antes de las técnicas de obturación, el volumen de los conductos radiculares después de la preparación fue similar (p>0,05). Los conductos radiculares obturados con la técnica de condensación por onda contínua presentaron el menor porcentaje de vacíos y el mayor porcentaje de material de obturación en longitud total y en tercios (cervical, medio y apical) (p<0,05). Ambas técnicas no fueron capaces de llenar completamente los conductos radiculares. La técnica de condensación de onda contínua Termo Pack II promovió un mejor relleno del conducto radicular en conductos radiculares curvos en comparación con la compactación lateral.

Methodologies used for testing the sealability of endodontic temporary fillings in vitro: A narrative review.

Introduction: The ability of the temporary filling to seal endodontic access cavities may be crucial for the success of endodontic treatment. Numerous in vitro studies have investigated the sealability of the temporary fillings used in endodontic treatments. However, in vitro sealability studies have been criticized for their inconsistent results and questionable clinical relevance. Some journals have imposed moratoriums on publishing such studies to encourage researchers to test their validity and clinical relevance. Since the implementation of this moratorium, little progress has been made in this field. To further encourage researchers to investigate the reliability of these studies, this review presents an overview of the methodologies of studies that examine the ability of temporary filling materials to seal the endodontic access cavity in vitro and discusses the criticisms of these studies in detail. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Scopus, and Embase electronic databases were searched to identify studies that tested in vitro the ability of temporary filling materials to seal endodontic access cavities. Only original articles published in English between 01/01/1970 and 28/02/2022 were included. Results: The search yielded 551 results. After removing duplicates and excluding studies that did not meet the inclusion criteria, 94 studies were included in this review. Conclusion: Although clinical studies may be the best way to test the performance of temporary fillings, the ethical importance of conducting preliminary in vitro studies is undeniable. It seems that questioning the reliability of in vitro sealability studies is not based on sufficient scientific evidence and that the inconsistencies in the results of these studies may be due to differences in the methodological and clinically relevant variables between them, rather than due to their unreliability.

Effect of voxel size of Micro-CT on the assessment of root canal preparation

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) voxel size on evaluation of root canal preparation using rotary heat-treated nickel-titanium files. Curved mesial root canals of mandibular molars were prepared using ProDesign Logic 30/.05 (PDL) or HyFlex EDM 25/.08 (HEDM) (n=12). The specimens were scanned using micro-CT with 5μm of voxel size before and after root canal preparation. Images with sub-resolution of 10 and 20μm voxel sizes were obtained. The percentage of volume increase, debris and uninstrumented root canal surface were analyzed in the different voxel sizes. Data were compared using unpaired Student's t-test and ANOVA statistical tests (α=0.05). No differences were observed for percentage of volume increase, debris and instrumented surface between the root canals prepared by PDL and HEDM (p>0.05). Both systems promoted higher percentage of debris in the apical third compared to the middle third (p0.05). PDL and HEDM had similar root canal preparation capacity. Micro-CT images using different voxel sizes did not influence the results of volume increase and debris evaluation. However, images at 5µm showed greater accuracy to evaluate the percentage of uninstrumented surfaces.

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la influencia del tamaño de vóxel de la microtomografía computarizada (micro-CT) en la evaluación de la preparación del conducto radicular utilizando limas rotatorias de níquel-titanio tratadas térmicamente. Se prepararon conductos radiculares mesiales curvos de molares mandibulares usando ProDesign Logic 30/.05 (PDL) o HyFlex EDM 25/.08 (HEDM) (n=12). Las muestras se escanearon usando micro-CT con un tamaño de vóxel de 5μm antes y después de la preparación del conducto radicular. Se obtuvieron imágenes con subresolución de vóxeles de 10 y 20μm. Se analizó el porcentaje de aumento de volumen, residuos y superficie del conducto radicular no instrumentado en diferentes tamaños de vóxel. Los datos se compararon usando la prueba t de Student no pareada y las pruebas estadísticas ANOVA (α=0,05). No se observaron diferencias en el porcentaje de aumento de volumen, detritus y superficie instrumentada entre los conductos radiculares preparados por PDL y HEDM (p>0,05). Ambos sistemas promovieron un mayor porcentaje de detritos en el tercio apical en comparación con el tercio medio (p0,05). PDL y HEDM tenían una capacidad de preparación del conducto radicular similar. Las imágenes de micro-CT que utilizan diferentes tamaños de vóxel no influyeron en los resultados de la evaluación del volumen y los desechos. Sin embargo, las imágenes de 5µm mostraron una mayor precisión al evaluar el porcentaje de superficies no instrumentadas.

Microbiological Profile of Primary Teeth with Irreversible Pulpitis and Pulp Necrosis with/without Abscess and their Susceptibility to Three Antibiotics as Intracanal Medication.

Context: The ineffective disinfection potential of conventional intracanal medicaments to eliminate enteropathogens from root canal systems leads to their persistence contributing to endodontic treatment failures. Hence, the use of appropriate intracanal medicament becomes the essential phase to accomplishing comprehensive decontamination of the root canal system. When applied topically as an intracanal medicament, antibiotics eradicate residual microorganisms from tortuous endodontic spaces, minimizing the risk of systemic toxicity. Aims and objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of various bacterial species associated with signs of irreversible pulpitis and pulp necrosis with/without abscess in primary teeth root canals and their susceptibility against three antimicrobial agents. Materials and methods: The pulp tissue and organic debris were retrieved from deciduous teeth (n = 50) from children between the age of 3-10 years and cultured. The bacterial identification and antibacterial profiling of isolated bacteria were done against clindamycin, metronidazole, and doxycycline through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assay. The MIC and MBC of each antibiotic were expressed as mean ± standard deviation (SD), range, and standard error (SE of the mean). The intergroup comparisons were done by the Kruskal-Wallis test, while intragroup pair-wise comparisons were done using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The confidence level will be set at 95%. Results: Aerobic bacteria were found in 54%, microaerophilic bacteria in 76%, facultative anaerobes in 26%, and obligatory anaerobes were isolated from 30% of teeth. The intragroup and intergroup comparisons of test agent MIC revealed a nonsignificant difference (p > 0.05). The intragroup MBC comparisons of all the test agents revealed statistically nonsignificant (p > 0.05), while intergroup comparisons demonstrated nonsignificant (p > 0.05) to highly significant difference (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Clindamycin demonstrated promising antibacterial activity against most of the isolated bacteria, while against metronidazole and doxycycline, most of the bacteria were moderate to highly resistant. Clinical significance: Determining the antibacterial agents' efficacy along with modifications can help to target maximum pathogenic microbes and reduce catastrophic endodontic therapy failures. How to cite this article: Dahake PT, Kothari S. Microbiological Profile of Primary Teeth with Irreversible Pulpitis and Pulp Necrosis with/without Abscess and their Susceptibility to Three Antibiotics as Intracanal Medication. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2023;16(2):312-320.

Effect of occlusal hypofunction on centre of resistance in maxillary central incisor using the finite element method.

OBJECTIVES: To determine differences in the location of centre of resistance (Cres) between functional and hypofunctional teeth and to evaluate the relationship between the pulp cavity volume and locations of the Cres, using the finite element (FE) method. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. PARTICIPANTS: FE models of right maxillary central incisor, derived from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 46 participants, were divided into normal function (n = 23) and hypofunction (n = 23) groups using anterior overbite and cephalometric measurements. METHODS: Measurements of the tooth and pulp cavity volume were made from CBCT. Cres levels were presented as percentages of the root length from the root's apex. All data were analysed and compared using the independent t-test (P < 0.05). The relationship between the location of Cres and volume ratios were evaluated statistically. RESULTS: The means of the pulp cavity/tooth volume and root canal/ root volume ratio of the maxillary central incisor in anterior open bite group were significantly greater than those in the normal group. The average location of Cres in the anterior open bite group was 0.6 mm (3.7%) apically from the normal group, measured from root apex. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.01). There was a significant correlation between root canal/root volume ratio and locations of Cres (r = -0.780, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The Cres in the hypofunctional group was located more apical than the functional group. As the pulp cavity volume increased, the levels of Cres apically shifted.

Cone-beam computed tomographic evaluation of the root canal anatomy of the lower premolars and molars in a Brazilian sub-population.

Purpose: This study evaluated anatomical variations in the root canals of the lower premolars and molars in a Brazilian sub-population using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Materials and Methods: In total, 121 CBCT images of patients were selected from a database. All images contained lower first and second premolars and molars on both sides of the arch, fully developed roots, and no treatment, resorption, or calcifications. In each image, the root canals of the lower premolars and molars were evaluated according to the Vertucci classification in On-Demand 3D software in the multiplanar reconstruction with dynamic navigation. Twenty-five percent of the images were re-assessed to analyze intraobserver confidence with the kappa test. Data were statistically evaluated with linear regression to evaluate the correlations of anatomic variations with age and sex, and the Wilcoxon test to analyze the laterality of variations, with a significance level of 5%. Results: The intraobserver agreement (0.94) was excellent. In general, the root canals of lower premolars and molars showed a higher prevalence of type I than other Vertucci classification types, followed by type V in premolars and type II in molars. When the molar roots were evaluated separately, type II was more frequent in mesial roots and type I in distal roots. Although age showed no correlations with the results, sex and laterality showed correlations with tooth 45 and the lower second premolars, respectively. Conclusion: The lower premolars and molars of a Brazilian sub-population showed a wide range of root canal anatomic variations.

Microscopic Alterations of the Dental Pulp in Surgically Extracted Teeth of Dogs.

Microscopic alterations in the dental pulp of dogs have not been extensively studied. The aim of this study was to investigate microscopic alterations of the dental pulp in dogs' teeth. One hundred and ten surgically extracted teeth (20 incisors, 23 canines, 28 premolars, and 39 molars) from 74 dogs, of different ages, with a history of chronic periodontitis (66 dogs), periapical abscesses (2 dogs), pulpitis (2 dogs), oral cavity neoplasms (2 dogs), dens invaginatus (1 dog), and dental fractures (1 dog) were included. Eight-one maxillary and 29 mandibular teeth were included. Coronal, radicular, and coronal plus radicular calculus were present in 28.2%, 17.3%, and 54.5% of the teeth, respectively. In total 78 teeth (71%) had pulp alterations, including fibrosis (26%), calcification (14%), necrosis associated with the absence of odontoblasts (14%), presence of predentin and dentin inside the cavity (8%), odontoblastic hyperplasia (3%), pigmentation (3%), pulpitis (2%), and pulp stones (1%). Forty-nine (60.5%) of the maxillary teeth and all of the mandibular teeth had pulp alterations. The premolars were most affected, and the molars least affected, by pulp alterations. Pulp fibrosis, calcification, and necrosis were observed in teeth irrespective of the distribution of dental calculus.

Effect of natural antioxidants on bond strength recovery of resin-modified glass ionomers to the NaOCl-affected pulp chamber dentin.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the effect of two natural antioxidants on the compromised bond strength of a resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI) to the sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)-affected pulp chamber dentin. METHODS: Forty-two sound third molars were split into halves. The exposed pulp chamber dentin was ground to provide the flat dentin surfaces and divided into seven groups (n = 12), according to the solutions used for immersion: (1) Control, distilled water; (2) NaOCl, 5.25% NaOCl for 20 min; (3) NaOCl/Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA); 5.25% NaOCl for 20 min + 17% EDTA for 1 min; (4) NaOCl/TA, 5.25% NaOCl + 10% tanic acid (TA) for 5 min; (5) NaOCl/EDTA/TA, 5.25% NaOCl + 17% EDTA + 10% TA for 5 min; (6) NaOCl/PA, 5.25% NaOCl+ 10% proanthocyanidin for 5 min; and (7) NaOCl/EDTA/PA, 5.25% NaOCl+ 17% EDTA + 10% PA for 5 min. The RMGI was bonded on the treated dentin using a Tygon tube. After 24 h of storage, microshear bond strength (µSBS) was tested. Data in MPa were submitted to one-way analysis of variance and Tamhane test. RESULTS: NaOCl significantly decreased the µSBS; NaOCl/EDTA and NaOCl/TA significantly increased the µSBS, higher than the control group (p < .05); and in the NaOCl/EDTA/TA group, the increased bond strength was at the level of the control group (p > .05). NaOCl/PA and NaOCl/EDTA/PA and NaOCl groups had comparable µSBS. CONCLUSION: TA could be suggested to provide effective bonding of RMGI and immediate sealing of the pulp chamber dentin after NaOCl irrigation.

Accuracy of an endodontic rotary motor with integrated apex locator to determine the root canal length / Precisão de um motor rotatório endodôntico com localizador apical integrado para determinação do comprimento radicular

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy to determine the root canal length, in vitro,of both the electronic apex locator (M2) and the autostop (AS - M3) functions of the Endus Duo Gnatus endodontic motor (Gnatus, São Paulo, SP, Brazil). Methods: Thirty extracted human single-rooted premolars had their root canal lengths (TLs) up to the apical foramen determined using the Endus Duo Gnatus in two ways: (1) In the stainless steel (SS) control group, the measurement was obtained using a stainless steel hand instrument with the electronic locator mode (M2 function) connected to a stainless-steel hand instrument (K-file #15). In the NiTi rotary instrument (NiTi RI) intervention group, the measurement was obtained during the instrumentation (M3 function) of the root canals with a nickel-titanium rotary instrument (Hyflex CM: Coltene Whaledent, Cuyahoga Falls, OH, USA), size 25/.06. The NiTi manually used instrument (NiTi MUI) Intervention group performed the measurement in locator mode using a Hyflex instrument, placed to true length manually. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA followed by the Tukey post-hoc test with a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The true mean length and standard deviation (SD) of the standardized root canals were 18.40 ± 2.14mm, while the mean lengths and standard deviations (SD) were 18.29 ± 1.89mm, 18.22 ± 1.85mm, and 17.24 ± 2.09mm for the SS, NiTi RI, and NiTi MUI groups, respectively. However, data from the NiTi MUI Intervention group indicated shorter root canal lengths when compared to the SS control group and the NiTi RI Intervention group values, and were significantly shorter than the true canal length (p < 0.001). Conclusions:The use of the motor in NiTi RI Intervention group showed acceptable results. However, the NiTi MUI Intervention group resulted in unacceptable short measurements.

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia na determinação do comprimento do canal radicular, in vitro, das funções localizador eletrônico foraminal (M2) e auto-parada durante a instrumentação (M3) do motor endodôntico Endus Duo Gnatus ( Gnatus, São Paulo, SP, Brasil). Métodos: Trinta pré-molares humanos uniradiculares extraídos tiveram seus comprimentos de canais radiculares (CRTs) até o forame apical determinados usando o Endus Duo Gnatus de duas maneiras: (1) No grupo controle de aço inoxidável (SS), a medida foi obtida usando um instrumento manual de aço inoxidável com modo de localização eletrônica foraminal (função M2) conectado a um instrumento manual de aço inoxidável (lima tipo K #15). No grupo intervenção instrumento rotatório NiTi (NiTi RI), a medida foi obtida durante a instrumentação (função M3) dos canais radiculares com instrumento rotatório de níquel-titânio (Hyflex CM: Coltene Whaledent, Cuyahoga Falls, OH, EUA), tamanho 25/.06. O grupo de intervenção NiTi instrumento usado manualmente (NiTi MUI) realizou a medição no modo localizador foraminal usando um instrumento Hyflex, colocado manualmente no comprimento real do dente. A análise estatística foi realizada por meio de ANOVA seguida do teste post-hoc de Tukey com nível de significância de p < 0,05. Resultados: Os comprimentos reais médios dos dentes e desvios-padrão (DP) dos canais radiculares padronizados foram 18,40 ± 2,14 mm, enquanto os comprimentos médios e desvios- padrão (DP) foram 18,29 ± 1,89 mm, 18,22 ± 1,85 mm e 17,24 ± 2,09 mm para os grupos SS, NiTi RI e NiTi MUI, respectivamente. No entanto, os dados do grupo de intervenção NiTi MUI indicaram comprimentos de canais radiculares mais curtos quando comparados aos valores do grupo controle SS e do grupo de intervenção NiTi RI, e foram significativamente mais curtos que o comprimento real do canal (p < 0,001). Conclusões: A utilização do motor no grupo Intervenção NiTi RI apresentou resultados aceitáveis. No entanto, o grupo de intervenção NiTi MUI resultou em medições curtas inaceitáveis.

Diamond-coated ultrasonic tip decreases debris and uninstrumented surface after preparation of curved canals with isthmus

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate root canal preparation with nickel titanium rotary instruments and complementary preparation with ultrasonic tip in curved canals of mandibular molars with isthmus. Twenty-eight mesial roots of mandibular molars with curvature between 20° and 40° and presence of isthmus throughout the entire extension of the root canals were prepared using ProDesign Logic CM (PDL) up to size 40.05, or HyFlex EDM (HFEDM) up to size 40.04. Complementary preparation was performed in the isthmus region using the ultrasonic insert E18D (Helse, Istmo Diamantada). The root canals were scanned using micro-CT (SkyScan 1176) at 9 µm voxel size before and after each preparation step. Transportation, percentage of increase in volume, debris and uninstrumented surface (UNS) were evaluated. Mann Whitney, Wilcoxon, paired and non-paired t-tests were used for statistical analysis (α = 0.05). The canals prepared with PDL and HFEDM obtained similar results for all the variables assessed before using E18D (p > 0.05). E18D significantly decreased the percentage of debris and UNS values in both Groups (p < 0.05). The complementary preparations with E18D caused a smaller quantity of debris in the isthmus of the canals previously prepared with PDL in comparison with HFEDM (p < 0.05). PDL and HFEDM provided similar root canal preparation. PDL promoted a smaller quantity of Debris in the isthmus than HFEDM after using E18D. E18D significantly improved cleaning, and reduced Debris and UNS.

Comparison of Accuracy Between Pulp/Tooth Ratio and Tooth Coronal Index Methods for Dental Age Estimation Using Digital Panoramic Radiographs

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the reliability and the accuracy of Tooth Coronal Index (TCI) and Pulp/Tooth Ratio (PTR) methods in dental age estimation using digital panoramic radiography. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 237 dental panoramic images were collected. The two methods (TCI and PTR) were applied to all left mandibular first and second molars based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. In order to analyze the acquired data, statistical methods were used. The estimated ages derived by exclusive formula were compared to the chronological age, and the error ranges for each indicator were measured to determine their accuracy. Results: There were negative correlations between PTR in the first molar (r=-0.89) and in the second molar (r=-0.788), as well as TCI in the first molar (r=-0.587) and in the second molar (r=-.242). In this study, we found that the Pulp/Tooth Ratio (PTR) accuracy rate for mandibular first and second molar teeth was 79.21% and 62.09 %, respectively, although the Tooth Coronal Index (TCI) value for these teeth was 34.45% and 5.85%. Conclusion: Pulp/Tooth Ratio and Tooth Coronal Index are potential age estimation indices. Although PTR was the more accurate one in our study. The results also demonstrated that indices related to the first molar tooth could be used to estimate age with greater accuracy and validity.

Randomized Clinical Study of the Use of MTA and Biodentine™ for Pulpotomy in Primary Teeth

ABSTRACT Objective: To verify, through clinical and radiographic evaluations, the in vivo response of the dentin-pulpal complex of human primary teeth after pulpotomy with MTA and Biodentine™ in a follow-up period of 3, 6, and 12 months. Material and Methods: Thirty teeth were divided into MTA pulpotomy (n = 15) and Biodentine™ pulpotomy (n = 15) from children between 5 and 9 years of age, a randomized clinical trial with simple random sampling. The materials were inserted into the cavity after opening and removing the coronary pulp tissue. The cavity base consisted of glass ionomer cement and light-cured composite resin restoration. Clinical and radiographic analyses were performed after 3, 6, and 12 months. Statistical analysis by Fisher's exact test for dichotomous data at a 5% significance level was utilized. Results: Both materials caused color change after 12 months. However, MTA showed a higher percentage than Biodentine™ (p<0.0001). Pain was detected only with Biodentine™ at six months and mobility at 12 months (p=0.0013). Radiographically, after 12 months, periapical lesions, interradicular lesions, and internal resorption were evidenced in 13% of the cases for Biodentine™-treated teeth (p<0.0013). MTA induced pulp calcification in 13% of cases, unlike Biodentine™ (p<0.0013). Conclusion: BiodentineTM and MTA are suitable for clinical use in pulpotomy treatment, yet both materials lead to tooth discoloration.

Endodontic treatment of the maxillary first molar with palatal canal variations: A case report and review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Root canal variations frequently occur in maxillary first molars, which greatly affects the success of its treatment. The second mesiobuccal (MB) root canal is the most common root canal variation. However, only a few studies have been conducted on palatal root canal variations. Herein, we report the presence of two separate root canals in a palatal root of the maxillary first molar. CASE SUMMARY: A 39-year-old woman complained of pain in the maxillary right region for 1 year, which recently worsened. Clinical examination revealed a poorly restored right maxillary first molar and caries detected at the filling marginal. Cold and heat test results indicated severe pain in the right maxillary first molar. The patient was diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis, and subsequently, root canal treatment (RCT) was performed. In total, five root canals were found in the maxillary first molar, including two separate root canals in the palatal root. RCT was successfully performed using an endodontic microscope and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The CBCT image revealed a vertucci type I canal morphology in the distobuccal root, while the MB and palatal root canals were type Ⅳ. At the 1-mo follow-up, the maxillary first molar was completely asymptomatic, and the X-ray results indicated a successful RCT. Finally, the ceramic crown restoration was performed. CONCLUSION: An endodontic microscope and CBCT are useful in effectively identifying and treating root canal variations.

Effects of using different root canal sealers and protocols for cleaning intraradicular dentin on the bond strength of a composite resin used to reinforce weakened roots / Efectos del uso de diferentes selladores de conductos radiculares y protocolos para limpiar la dentina intrarradicular sobre la fuerza de unión de una resina compuesta utilizada para reforzar raíces debilitadas

Background: This study evaluated the effects of using different root canal sealers and protocols for cleaning intraradicular dentin on the bond strength of a composite resin used to reinforce weakened roots. Material and Methods: Sixty-four roots of extracted human maxillary canines were weakened, prepared and filled with two different endodontic sealers (Endofill and AH Plus). In half of the sample, set aside for each respective sealer, excess filling material was cleaned. In the other half, the weakened areas were not cleaned, and the excess of sealer was spread on the intraradicular dentin. Intentionally worn areas inside each root were restored with a microhybrid light-cure composite resin (Z100) to reinforce them, with and without acid etching. Prefabricated metal posts were fixed with a dual resin cement (RelyX ARC), and the specimens were submitted to a pull-out test. Statistical analysis was performed by means of Shapiro-Wilk, analysis of variance (one-way ANOVA) and Tukey-Kramer tests (p<0.05). Results: The groups filled with Endofill (GI, GII, GIII, GIV) had the lowest bond strength values, which were similar among each other (p>0.05).The greatest bond strength values were observed in roots filled with AH Plus (GV, GVI, GVII, GVIII), mainly without cleaning of the weakened areas, and followed by acid etching (GVII), and also with cleaning of the weakened areas, however, with no acid etching (GVI) (p<0.05). Conclusion: The greatest bond strength values were observed in roots filled with AH Plus; (1) without cleaning of the weakened areas and with acid etching, and; (2) with cleaning of the weakened areas, but without acid etching.

Antecedentes: este estudio evaluó los efectos del uso de diferentes selladores de conductos radiculares y protocolos para limpiar la dentina intrarradicular sobre la fuerza de unión de una resina compuesta utilizada para reforzar las raíces debilitadas. Material y Métodos: Sesenta y cuatro raíces de caninos maxilares humanos extraídos fueron debilitadas, preparadas y rellenadas con dos selladores endodónticos diferentes (Endofill y AH Plus). En la mitad de la muestra, reservada para cada sellador respectivo, se limpió el exceso de material de relleno. En la otra mitad, las áreas debilitadas no se limpiaron y el exceso de sellador se esparció sobre la dentina intrarradicular. Las áreas desgastadas intencionalmente dentro de cada raíz se restauraron con una resina compuesta fotopolimerizable microhíbrida (Z100) para reforzarlas, con y sin grabado ácido. Los postes metálicos prefabricados se fijaron con un cemento de resina dual (RelyX ARC) y los especímenes se sometieron a una prueba de extracción. El análisis estadístico se realizó mediante Shapiro-Wilk, análisis de varianza (ANOVA de una vía) y pruebas de Tukey-Kramer (p<0,05). Resultados: Los grupos rellenos con Endofill (GI, GII, GIII, GIV) presentaron los valores más bajos de fuerza de unión, los cuales fueron similares entre sí (p>0,05). Los mayores valores de fuerza de unión se observaron en raíces rellenas con AH Plus (GV, GVI, GVII, GVIII), principalmente sin limpieza de las áreas debilitadas, seguido de grabado ácido (GVII), y también con limpieza de las áreas debilitadas aunque sin grabado ácido (GVI) (p<0.05). Conclusión: Los mayores valores de fuerza de unión se observaron en las raíces rellenas con AH Plus; (1) sin limpieza de las áreas debilitadas y con grabado ácido, y; (2) con limpieza de las áreas debilitadas, pero sin grabado ácido.

Quantitative Analysis of Biofilm Removal Following Instrumentation with TRUShape and Vortex Blue File Systems: Microbiological Study.

Mesial roots and isthmuses of mandibular molars are difficult areas to obtain adequate disinfection of root canal walls, and consequently microorganisms can survive treatment. The present study compared, through real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), the effectiveness of TRUShape (TS) (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK) and Vortex Blue (VB) (Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK) in removing Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) from the mesial canals and isthmuses of mandibular molars. Fifty extracted human lower molars were inoculated with E. faecalis OG1RF for 14 days, and then an initial bacterial sample was collected with paper points from mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals and isthmuses. The specimens were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10 teeth; 20 canals each), according to instrumentation system: TS 25/0.06, TS 30/0.06, VB 25/0.06 and VB 30/0.06. The remaining 10 teeth were divided between positive control, inoculated teeth without instrumentation or irrigation, and negative controls, teeth without inoculation. After instrumentation, the final sample was taken using paper points and DNA was isolated. Primers specific for E. faecalis were used for qPCR. The bacterial reduction between pre- and post-instrumentation was calculated. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni's multiple-comparisons tests were for statistical analysis with significance of (p < 0.05). All file systems were able to reduce the load of E. faecalis from the prepared root canals, however, TS size 30 removed significantly more bacteria than size 25. Interestingly, regardless of the size, TS files removed significantly more E. faecalis biofilm (p < 0.05) than did VB files (63.7% vs 50.8% for size 25, and 69.5% vs 56% for size 30). In conclusion, when combined with irrigation, TS file system is more effective than VB in reducing E. faecalis biofilms from mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals and the isthmuses of mandibular molars.

Protocols for cleaning the incisor access cavity contaminated with epoxy resin sealer.

This study compared different methods for cleaning the sealer-contaminated access cavity of upper incisors. After standard endodontic access, the canals of 50 extracted maxillary incisors were chemomechanically prepared and obturated with gutta-percha and epoxy resin sealer. Teeth were randomly assigned to one of five different pulp chamber cleaning protocols (n = 10): air/water spray, ethanol-saturated cotton pellet (CP), ethanol-saturated microbrush reaching the root filling (MB), MB + air polishing (PROPHYflex; KaVo), or MB + etching with 37% phosphoric acid. Each tooth was split and the sealer-covered area of the pulp chamber was determined on images taken before and after cleaning using image analysis software. The sealer-covered area was compared across groups using one-way ANOVA. Greatest mean sealer-covered area reduction was observed for MB + etching (98.0%), MB + air polishing (95.2%), and MB alone (92.8%), yielding a significantly higher sealer-covered area reduction than after air/water spray (8.3%) and ethanol-saturated cotton pellet (53.4%). The upper incisor access cavity is best cleaned with an ethanol-saturated microbrush reaching up to the root filling, followed by air/water spraying and etching. The use of cotton pellets should be discouraged.

Micro-Computed Tomography Evaluation of Minimally Invasive Shaping Systems in Mandibular First Molars.

The aim of this study was to compare the shaping ability of a modified ProTaper Next technique (PTNm) with that of TruNatomy (TN) in lower molars mesial curved canals using micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT). Sixty mesial canals of first mandibular molars were randomly assigned between two groups (n = 30). After canal scouting with K-File #10, glide path and shaping were carried out with TN or PTNm systems. The PTNm sequence consists of ProGlider, followed by ProTaper Next X1 and apical finishing with NiTiFlex #25 up to working length (WL) to ensure adequate apical cleaning. Samples were scanned using micro-CT and pre- and post-shaping volumes were matched to analyse geometric parameters: the volume of removed dentin; the difference of canal surface; centroid shift, minimum and maximum root canal diameters; cross-sectional areas; the ratio of diameter ratios (RDR) and the ratio of cross-sectional areas (RA). Measurements were assessed 2 mm from the apex and in relation to the middle and coronal root canal thirds. Data were analysed using ANOVA (p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences were found between the groups for any parameter at each level of analysis, except for RA at the coronal level (p = 0.037). The PTNm system showed the tendency to enlarge more in the coronal portion with a lower centroid shift at apical level compared with TN sequence (p > 0.05). Both PTNm and TN sequences demonstrated similar maintenance of original anatomy during the shaping of lower molar mesial curved canals.

Three-Dimensional Analysis of the Pulp Chamber and Coronal Tooth of Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study.

The anatomical variability of primary molars promotes research to improve clinical restorative activity, forensic identification, and industrial development. The objective was to study the morphology of the pulp chamber and its three-dimensional relationship with the external morphology of the tooth. A total of 151 deciduous molars were collected and subjected to three-dimensional imaging analysis in order to determine dental crown (CV) and pulp chamber (PV) volumes, their ratio (VR), pulp chamber roof (PCR) and pulp chamber floor (PCF) area, the furcation length (FD), and morphological peculiarities. The data were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test in SPSS 26 software. The statistical analysis determined statistically significant differences between the four groups of molars for all variables. Great anatomical variability was observed, especially in the maxillary first molar, the volumes were higher in the maxillary second molar and the highest risk of furcal perforation was seen in the mandibular first molar. Additionally, mandibular second molars with six pulp horns, and some different density images compatible with accessory canals and pulp stones were found. Based on the findings of this investigation, we confirm the great anatomical variability that exists between the maxillary and mandibular molars.