Internal morphology of distal roots of mandibular first molars revealed by computed microtomography.

To evaluate the internal morphology of 100 distal roots of mandibular first molars using micro-CT. Teeth were scanned to characterise: Vertucci type, root length, canal shape, presence and location of accessory canals, and the number of foramina at 4 mm from the apex, presence of root isthmus and the length from the primary canal to the apical foramen. Vertucci type I was found in 57% of cases, followed by V (27%). The most common cross-section 1 mm from the apex was oval (49%) and circular (38%). The average root length was 16.06 mm (16.61-19.02 mm). The mean foramen size was 0.32 and 0.53 mm for the minor and major diameters, respectively. The volume, surface area and SMI were 7.84 mm3 , 68.87 mm2 and 1.52 mm, respectively. Root isthmi were found in 47% of the samples, and the length mean from the primary canal to the apical foramen was 2,03 mm. The internal morphology of the distal roots of mandibular first molars may be complex and shows variations.

Influence of conservative endodontic access cavities on instrumentation of oval-shaped straight root canals.

AIM: To evaluate the influence of the design of endodontic access cavities on the percentage of unprepared areas of canal walls and flexural fatigue of instruments activated by reciprocating movement in oval-shaped straight root canals of extracted teeth. METHODOLOGY: Forty-two mandibular incisors with oval canals were scanned by a microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) device for homogeneous selection and distribution of the samples. Then, the teeth were divided into two groups (n = 21) according to the design of access cavity being tested: ultraconservative endodontic access cavity (UltraAC) and traditional access cavity. The canals were accessed with the aid of a surgical microscope, instrumented with the WaveOne Gold Medium system and irrigated with 2.5% NaOCl and 17% EDTA. The unprepared areas of the canal wall were analysed by overlaying images before and after instrumentation and expressed as percentages. micro-CT data were analysed using t-test, Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests. The endodontic instruments used during instrumentation were subjected to static flexural fatigue testing using an artificial stainless steel canal with a 60° angle of curvature and a radius of 5 mm, located 5 mm from the tip of the instrument. The instruments were activated until fracture occurred, and the time in seconds for the fracture was recorded using a digital timer. The number of cycles to fracture was calculated and analysed statistically. For flexural fatigue data, an anova test complemented by a Tukey range test was used. The significance level of 5% was used for all analyses. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the groups related to unprepared areas by the instrument during canal preparation (p > .05). The difference in flexural fatigue resistance between the groups was not significant. CONCLUSION: The use of UltraAC did not interfere with the canal instrumentation of extracted mandibular incisors with straight and oval canals. There was no difference in the flexural fatigue resistance of the instruments in relation to access cavity design.

Comparison of limited- and large-volume cone-beam computed tomography using a small voxel size for detecting isthmuses in mandibular molars.

PURPOSE: This study was performed to compare the ability of limited- and large-volume cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to display isthmuses in the apical root canals of mandibular molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty human mandibular first molars with isthmuses in the apical 3 mm of mesial roots were scanned by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), and their thickness, area, and length were recorded. The samples were examined using 2 CBCT systems, using the smallest voxels and field of view available for each device. The Mann-Whitney, Friedman, and Dunn multiple comparison tests were performed (α=0.05). RESULTS: The 3D Accuitomo 170 and i-Cat devices detected 77.5% and 75.0% of isthmuses, respectively (P>0.05). For length measurements, there were significant differences between micro-CT and both 3D Accuitomo 170 and i-Cat (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Both CBCT systems performed similarly and did not detect isthmuses in the apical third in some cases. CBCT still does not equal the performance of micro-CT in isthmus detection, but it is nonetheless a valuable tool in endodontic practice.

Mechanical Properties of ProTaper Gold, EdgeTaper Platinum, Flex Gold and Pro-T Rotary Systems.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the cyclic fatigue, torsional behavior and bending resistance of EdgeTaper Platinum [ETP (tip 25, taper 0.06)], Flex Gold [FG (tip 25, taper 0.08)], Pro-T [PT (tip 25, taper 0.08)] and ProTaper Gold [PTG (tip 25, taper 0.08)] systems. METHODS: Rotary instruments of ETP, PT, FG, and PTG were used (n=30). Cyclic fatigue tests were performed using an artificial stainless-steel canal with a 60o angle and a 5-mm radius of curvature at body temperature (35°±1°C). The time and number of cycles to fracture (NCF) was recorded. The torsional test evaluated the torque and angle of rotation to failure at 3 mm from the tip according to ISO 3630-1. The fractured surface of each fragment was observed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The bending test evaluated the torque required to bend the instruments at an angular deflection of 60°. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests, and the level of significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: The ETP had highest time until fracture and NCF than all the groups (P<0.05). The PTG had the highest torsional strength, followed by FG (P<0.05). The ETP had the highest angular rotation, followed by PT and PTG (P<0.05). The FG showed the highest bending resistance, followed by the PTG (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the ETP and PT exhibited higher cyclic fatigue resistance, higher angular deflection values and lower bending force than FG and PTG. The PTG instruments showed the highest torsional strength and the lowest cyclic fatigue resistance.

Limitation of diagnostic value of cone-beam CT in detecting apical root isthmuses.

INTRODUCTION: Isthmuses are reported as common anatomic complexities in teeth often associated with failures in endodontic treatment. They should be considered before starting treatment and a preoperative computed tomography scan (CT) may demonstrate these complexities. OBJECTIVE: To assess the diagnostic value of the highest resolution settings of a cone-beam CT (CBCT) system in identifying and measuring apical isthmuses, using micro-CT as reference. METHODOLOGY: After micro-CT scanning, 40 humans' lower first molars with isthmuses in the apical-3 mm of mesial roots were scanned by the highest resolution settings of the New Generation i-Cat ® CBCT equipment. Two blinded observers recorded the detection of isthmuses in CBCT scans. The lengths of isthmuses were compared between micro-CT and CBCT to assess the diagnostic value of CBCT. Quantitative data for sensitivity were represented as percentages (95% confidence interval). The Bland-Altman method was used to assess differences between gold standard lengths (micro-CT) and CBCT lengths. RESULTS: BCT demonstrated 30 positive findings, representing sensitivity for isthmus identification of 75% (95% CI=0.4114-1.1364). Differences between the lengths in micro-CT (1.99±0.40 mm) and CBCT (1.53±0.41 mm) were significant (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The CBCT device used presented limited diagnostic value in the identification and measurement of apical isthmuses in the mesial roots of lower molars. In some cases, the actual anatomy of the apical root canal may not be completely delineated in this type of CBCT system, even using the highest resolution settings.

Limitation of diagnostic value of cone-beam CT in detecting apical root isthmuses

Abstract Isthmuses are reported as common anatomic complexities in teeth often associated with failures in endodontic treatment. They should be considered before starting treatment and a preoperative computed tomography scan (CT) may demonstrate these complexities. Objective To assess the diagnostic value of the highest resolution settings of a cone-beam CT (CBCT) system in identifying and measuring apical isthmuses, using micro-CT as reference. Methodology After micro-CT scanning, 40 humans' lower first molars with isthmuses in the apical-3 mm of mesial roots were scanned by the highest resolution settings of the New Generation i-Cat ® CBCT equipment. Two blinded observers recorded the detection of isthmuses in CBCT scans. The lengths of isthmuses were compared between micro-CT and CBCT to assess the diagnostic value of CBCT. Quantitative data for sensitivity were represented as percentages (95% confidence interval). The Bland-Altman method was used to assess differences between gold standard lengths (micro-CT) and CBCT lengths. Results BCT demonstrated 30 positive findings, representing sensitivity for isthmus identification of 75% (95% CI=0.4114-1.1364). Differences between the lengths in micro-CT (1.99±0.40 mm) and CBCT (1.53±0.41 mm) were significant (p<0.0001). Conclusion The CBCT device used presented limited diagnostic value in the identification and measurement of apical isthmuses in the mesial roots of lower molars. In some cases, the actual anatomy of the apical root canal may not be completely delineated in this type of CBCT system, even using the highest resolution settings.

Accuracy of High-resolution Small-volume Cone-beam Computed Tomography in Detecting Complex Anatomy of the Apical Isthmi: Ex Vivo Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of small-volume cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to detect and measure isthmi in the apical root canals of mandibular molars by using micro-computed tomography (µ-CT) as the reference standard. METHODS: Forty mandibular first molars selected on the basis of µ-CT scan and presenting isthmi in the apical 3-mm mesial roots were scanned by using the highest-resolution settings of a small-volume CBCT unit. Isthmi lengths were measured and compared between both µ-CT and CBCT images to study the accuracy of CBCT readings. Quantitative data for sensitivity rate were depicted as percentage value with 95% confidence interval. Results were analyzed by using linear regression between true lengths (µ-CT) and CBCT lengths, Bland-Altman plot and t test, at α = 0.05. RESULTS: CBCT sensitivity for isthmi detection was 65% (95% confidence interval, 0.4667-0.8333). An average of 74.7% of the lengths could be measured, and differences among the lengths in µ-CT and CBCT were significant (P < .05; mean, 0.756 ± 0.655; t test), showing that there was no agreement between both methods. CONCLUSIONS: Accuracy of identifying apical isthmi of mandibular molars was highly influenced by the evaluation method. Small-volume CBCT imaging could not detect and measure apical isthmi length accurately. Moreover, using high-resolution settings in CBCT, it was not reliable to forecast the actual apical root canal anatomy.

Influence of NiTi alloy on the root canal shaping capabilities of the ProTaper Universal and ProTaper Gold rotary instrument systems.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the NiTi wire in Conventional NiTi (ProTaper Universal PTU) and Controlled Memory NiTi (ProTaper Gold PTG) instrument systems on the quality of root canal preparation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twelve mandibular molars with separate mesial canals were scanned using a high-definition microcomputed tomography system. The PTU and PTG instruments were used to shape twelve mesial canals each. The canals were scanned after preparation with F2 and F3 instruments of the PTU and PTG systems. The analyzed parameters included the remaining dentin thickness at the apical and cervical levels, root canal volume and untouched canal walls. Data was analyzed for statistical significance by the Friedman and Dunn's tests. For the comparison of data between groups, the Mann-Whitney test was used. RESULTS: In the pre-operative analysis, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the area and volume of root canals (P>.05). There was also no statistically significant difference between the systems with respect to root canal volume after use of the F2 and F3 instruments. There was no statistical difference in the dentin thickness at the first apical level between, before and after instrumentation for both systems. At the 3 cervical levels, the PTG maintained centralization of the preparation on the transition between the F2 and F3 instruments, which did not occur with the PTU. Conclusion The Conventional NiTi (PTU) and Controlled Memory NiTi (PTG) instruments displayed comparable capabilities for shaping the straight mesial root canals of mandibular molars, although the PTG was better than the PTU at maintaining the centralization of the shape in the cervical portion.

Influence of NiTi alloy on the root canal shaping capabilities of the ProTaper Universal and ProTaper Gold rotary instrument systems

Abstract Objective This study aimed to evaluate the influence of the NiTi wire in Conventional NiTi (ProTaper Universal PTU) and Controlled Memory NiTi (ProTaper Gold PTG) instrument systems on the quality of root canal preparation. Material and Methods Twelve mandibular molars with separate mesial canals were scanned using a high-definition microcomputed tomography system. The PTU and PTG instruments were used to shape twelve mesial canals each. The canals were scanned after preparation with F2 and F3 instruments of the PTU and PTG systems. The analyzed parameters included the remaining dentin thickness at the apical and cervical levels, root canal volume and untouched canal walls. Data was analyzed for statistical significance by the Friedman and Dunn’s tests. For the comparison of data between groups, the Mann-Whitney test was used. Results In the pre-operative analysis, there were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of the area and volume of root canals (P>.05). There was also no statistically significant difference between the systems with respect to root canal volume after use of the F2 and F3 instruments. There was no statistical difference in the dentin thickness at the first apical level between, before and after instrumentation for both systems. At the 3 cervical levels, the PTG maintained centralization of the preparation on the transition between the F2 and F3 instruments, which did not occur with the PTU. Conclusion The Conventional NiTi (PTU) and Controlled Memory NiTi (PTG) instruments displayed comparable capabilities for shaping the straight mesial root canals of mandibular molars, although the PTG was better than the PTU at maintaining the centralization of the shape in the cervical portion.

Evaluation of Mesial Root Canals of Mandibular Molars Obturated with Gutta-Percha and Resilon Techniques.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the obturation of mesial root canals of mandibular first molars performed with different filling techniques and materials (gutta-percha and resilon). METHODS: Seventy-eight mesial root canals of human mandibular first molars were prepared using the K3 rotary system, and the apical preparation was set up to size 35.04. The root canals were obturated with single cone, System B, Thermafil and Real Seal 1 techniques using either gutta-percha/ThermaSeal Plus (n=13) or Resilon/Real Seal SE (n=13). Rhodamine B dye was incorporated into the sealers. Each specimen was horizontally sectioned at 2 milimeters (mm), 4 mm and 6 mm from the apex, and the samples were examined under a stereomicroscope to evaluate the presence and type of isthmuses and the percentage areas of gutta-percha/Resilon, sealer and voids. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used to evaluate the sealer penetration into dentinal tubules. The Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests were used to analyse the stereomicroscope data, while the ANOVA and Tukey tests were used to analyse the CLSM data (P<0.05). RESULTS: Thermafil and Real Seal 1 fillings showed more gutta-percha/Resilon and less sealer (P<0.05) at the 2 mm level, but the percentage of voids was similar in all groups (P>0.05). At the 4 mm level, more sealer (P<0.05) was found in the single cone groups using both materials. The System B groups exhibited better performance at the 6 mm level. The percentage of sealer penetration showed no statistically significant differences among the obturation techniques for all evaluated levels. Similar results (P>0.05) were found for both material/sealers. CONCLUSION: None of the materials or techniques completely filled the mesial root canals of mandibular molars, but the plasticised techniques were more efficient. The obturations using both materials and sealers were similar.

Evaluation of the internal anatomy and instrumentation techniques with new mechanized instrumentation systems in second mandibular molars with fused roots / Avaliação da anatomia interna, instrumentação e técnicas de retratamento com novos sistemas mecanizados de instrumentação em segundos molares inferiores com raízes fusionadas

O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar por meio da microtomografia computadorizada os aspetos morfológicos e morfométricos da anatomia interna do sistema de canais radiculares com formato em C, e, avaliar a área de superfície, volume e áreas do canal não instrumentadas antes e após a instrumentação dos canais por meio de sistemas alternativos de instrumentação mecanizada, assim como, analisar o efeito de instrumentos manuais com movimento de 90º-oscilatório como instrumentação final. Cinquenta e dois segundos molares inferiores extraídos com canais em forma de C foram escaneados usando micro tomografia computadorizada. As secções transversais do canal radicular foram registradas de acordo com a classificação modificada de Melton. Os parâmetros morfométricos e a configuração tridimensional, foram avaliadas. Depois, 20 dentes com anatomias convergentes e configuração interna C1 foram divididos em dois grupos (n = 10) e instrumentados com Reciproc e SAF respectivamente. Em seguida, uma lima niti #30 do tipo K foi usado em movimento de 90º oscilatório como uma instrumentação final. Os espécimes foram escaneados usando Micro-CT após todos os procedimentos. Os parâmetros morfométricos foram analisados utilizando o programa CTAN. Além disso, a superfície do canal radicular não instrumentada foi calculada por terços. Os resultados indicaram uma distribuição uniforme dentro da amostra. Além disso, a análise da secção transversal revelou predominância das configurações de C4 e C3 a 1 mm a partir do ápice e as configurações C1 e C2 no terço cervical. De acordo com os parâmetros morfométricos, o tipo C1 e o canal distal do C2 apresentaram os menores valores de circularidade e valores mais elevados para a área, diâmetro maior e menor no terço apical. Todos os valores relativos a analise de instrumentação foram comparados entre os grupos utilizando o teste de Mann- Whitney e a comparação intra-grupos usando o teste de Wilcoxon. A instrumentação com Reciproc aumentou significativamente o volume do canal em comparação com SAF. Além disso, os volumes dos canais foram significativamente aumentados após a instrumentação de 90º-oscilatória (P <0,05). Depois de todos os protocolos de instrumentação, o aumento de área de superfície só revelou diferenças significativas na comparação intra-grupos (P <0,05). A instrumentação com Reciproc e SAF deixou 28% e 34%, de áreas não instrumentadas respectivamente, sem diferença estatística (P> 0,05). Já a instrumentação oscilatória final reduziu as superfícies do canal radicular não instrumentadas de 28% para 9% (Reciproc) e de 34% para 15% (SAF; P <0,05). Os molares inferiores com canais radiculares em forma de C apresentaram distribuições semelhantes de canais simétricos, assimétricos e convergentes. A configuração C1 e o aspecto distal da configuração C2 apresentaram os maiores valores de área de e diâmetros apicais. Além disso, o uso final da instrumentação com 90º oscilatório usando instrumentos manuais de NiTi diminuiu significativamente as paredes do canal não instrumentadas que permaneceram após a instrumentação com Reciproc e SAF. Finalmente, a combinação de dois sistemas ou técnicas de instrumentação provaram ser eficazes na obtenção de melhores resultados na instrumentação de segundos molares inferiores em forma de C.(AU)

The present study evaluated the morphometric aspects of the internal anatomy of the root canal and the effect of 90º-oscillatory instrumentation with hand files on volume, surface area and uninstrumented surface after shaping procedures with Self adjusting file and Reciproc in mandibular second molars with C-shaped canals. 52 extracted mandibular second molars with C-shaped canals were scanned with a micro-computed tomography scanner. The root canal cross-sections were recorded according to the modified Melton classification. Morphometric parameters and the tridimensional configuration, were evaluated. Afterwards, 20 teeth with merging type canals and C1 internal configuration were divided in two groups (n = 10) and instrumented with Reciproc and SAF instruments respectively. Then, a size 30 Niti hand K-file used in 90º-oscillatory was used as a final instrumentation. The specimens were scanned using Micro-CT after all procedures. Morphometric parameters were analyzed using CTAn software. Also, the uninstrumented root canal surface was calculated for each canal third. The results indicated an even distribution within the sample. Also, the cross-sectional configuration analysis revealed predominance of the C4 and C3 configurations at 1 mm from the apex and the C1 and C2 configurations in the cervical third. According to the morphometric parameters, the C1 and the distal aspect of the C2 exhibited the lowest roundness values and higher values for the area, major diameter and aspect ratio in the apical third. All values were compared between groups using the Mann­Whitney test and within groups using the Wilcoxon's signed-rank test. The significance level was set at 5%. Instrumentation with Reciproc significantly increased canal volume compared to SAF and the canal volumes were significantly increased after 90º-oscillatory instrumentation (P < 0.05). After all instrumentation protocols the surface area increase only revealed significant differences in the within groups comparison (P < 0.05). Reciproc and SAF instrumentation yielded a uninstrumented root canal surface of 28% and 34%, respectively, without differences (P > 0.05). Final oscillatory instrumentation reduced the uninstrumented root canal surface from 28% to 9% (Reciproc) and from 34% to 15% (SAF; P < 0.05). The apical and middle thirds exhibited higher uninstrumented root canal surfaces after the first instrumentation that was significantly reduced after oscillatory instrumentation (P < 0.05). Mandibular molars with C-shaped root canals exhibited similar distributions of symmetrical, asymmetrical and merging-type canals. The C1 configuration and the distal aspect of the C2 configuration exhibited the highest area values and large apical diameters. Furthermore, the final use of 90º-oscillatory instrumentation using NiTi hand files significantly decreased the uninstrumented canal walls that remained after Reciproc and SAF instrumentation. Finally, the combination of two instrumentation systems/techniques proved to be effective in achieving better instrumentation results in C-shaped mandibular second molars.(AU)

Influência do tipo de instrumento empregado para agitação ultrassônica na capacidade de remoção da smear layer / Influence of the type of instrument used in passive ultrasonic irrigation on the smear layer removal capacity

Introdução: o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a capacidade de remoção da smear layer de limas manuais de aço inoxidável e de NiTi e de fio ortodôntico de NiTi, ativados pelo ultrassom. Métodos: 50 canais de raízes palatinas de molares superiores foram dilatados, no terço cervical, com a broca Laxxess 35 e, no terço apical, com o sistema ProTaper, até o instrumento F4, no comprimento real de trabalho. Os canais foram irrigados com hipoclorito de sódio a 1% e divididos em cinco grupos: GI = EDTA + ultrassom por 1 minuto com lima 15 do tipo K de aço inoxidável; GII = EDTA + ultrassom por 1 minuto com lima tipo K 15 de NiTi; GIII = EDTA + ultrassom por 1 minuto com fio ortodôntico #25 x 11 de NiTi; GIV = EDTA por 3 minutos sem agitação com ultrassom; GV = sem EDTA nem ultrassom. Posteriormente, cada raiz foi seccionada longitudinalmente e uma hemissecção foi metalizada e analisada em microscópio eletrônico de varredura, sendo feitas imagens de cada uma delas, nos três terços, estipulando-se os seguintes escores: 0 = nenhuma camada de detritos dentinários, com túbulos dentinários limpos e abertos; 1 = camada moderada de detritos dentinários; 2 = camada espessa de detritos dentinários, cobrindo a superfície dos túbulos dentinários. Os dados foram comparados estatisticamente. Resultados: após observar a smear layer nos três terços, verificou-se que todos os grupos que usaram o EDTA se diferenciaram estatisticamente (p < 0,05) do grupo sem EDTA. Não houve, porém, diferenças significativas entre os grupos com agitação ultrassônica e o grupo de EDTA sem ultrassom. Não houve diferenças significativas (p < 0,05) entre os três instrumentos empregados. Conclusão: o uso do EDTA favoreceu a remoção da smear layer. A ativação ultrassônica do EDTA por 1 minuto, independentemente do instrumento empregado, favoreceu a obtenção de paredes mais limpas.

A new improved protocol for in vitro intratubular dentinal bacterial contamination for antimicrobial endodontic tests: standardization and validation by confocal laser scanning microscopy

Objectives To compare three methods of intratubular contamination that simulate endodontic infections using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Material and Methods Two pre-existing models of dentinal contamination were used to induce intratubular infection (groups A and B). These methods were modified in an attempt to improve the model (group C). Among the modifications it may be included: specimen contamination for five days, ultrasonic bath with BHI broth after specimen sterilization, use of E. faecalisduring the exponential growth phase, greater concentration of inoculum, and two cycles of centrifugation on alternate days with changes of culture media. All specimens were longitudinally sectioned and stained with of LIVE/DEAD® for 20 min. Specimens were assessed using CLSM, which provided images of the depth of viable bacterial proliferation inside the dentinal tubules. Additionally, three examiners used scores to classify the CLSM images according to the following parameters: homogeneity, density, and depth of the bacterial contamination inside the dentinal tubules. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s tests were used to evaluate the live and dead cells rates, and the scores obtained. Results The contamination scores revealed higher contamination levels in group C when compared with groups A and B (p<0.05). No differences were observed between group A and B (p>0.05). The volume of live cells in group C was higher than in groups A and B (p<0.05). Conclusion The new protocol for intratubular infection resulted in high and uniform patterns of bacterial contamination and higher cell viability in all specimens when compared with the current methods.

A new improved protocol for in vitro intratubular dentinal bacterial contamination for antimicrobial endodontic tests: standardization and validation by confocal laser scanning microscopy.

OBJECTIVES: To compare three methods of intratubular contamination that simulate endodontic infections using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Two pre-existing models of dentinal contamination were used to induce intratubular infection (groups A and B). These methods were modified in an attempt to improve the model (group C). Among the modifications it may be included: specimen contamination for five days, ultrasonic bath with BHI broth after specimen sterilization, use of E. faecalisduring the exponential growth phase, greater concentration of inoculum, and two cycles of centrifugation on alternate days with changes of culture media. All specimens were longitudinally sectioned and stained with of LIVE/DEAD for 20 min. Specimens were assessed using CLSM, which provided images of the depth of viable bacterial proliferation inside the dentinal tubules. Additionally, three examiners used scores to classify the CLSM images according to the following parameters: homogeneity, density, and depth of the bacterial contamination inside the dentinal tubules. Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests were used to evaluate the live and dead cells rates, and the scores obtained. RESULTS: The contamination scores revealed higher contamination levels in group C when compared with groups A and B (p<0.05). No differences were observed between group A and B (p>0.05). The volume of live cells in group C was higher than in groups A and B (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The new protocol for intratubular infection resulted in high and uniform patterns of bacterial contamination and higher cell viability in all specimens when compared with the current methods.

Prevalencia de alteraciones en el complejo estilohiodeo en radiografías panorámicas digitales / Prevalence of alterations of the stylohyoid complex in digital panoramic radiographs

Introducción: alteraciones de este aparato estilohioideo son frecuentes y se manifiestan por el alargamiento del proceso estiloides y también por la osificación del ligamento estilohioideo. Los cambios pueden ser asintomáticos o pueden desencadenar una serie de síntomas como el dolor en cabeza. Objetivo: determinar la prevalencia del alargamiento del proceso estiloide y de la osificación del ligamento estilohioideo en radiografías panorámicas, atendiendo a la distribución según edad, sexo y lado afectado. Métodos: se tomaron 300 radiografías panorámicas digitales de los archivos de un Servicio de Radiología Dental. Fueron seleccionadas al azar entre las realizadas en 2012, y evaluadas por un único examinador. Fueron consideradas las radiografías en las cuales el proceso estiloide del hueso temporal superaba en más de 1 cm el borde más inferior del cartílago del lóbulo de la oreja y aquellas en la que el ligamento estilohioideo aparecía radiopaco. Resultados: en este estudio, se encontraron 108 radiografías (36 por ciento) con estas condiciones. Hubo una mayor prevalencia de alargamiento del proceso estiloide y/o la osificación del ligamento estilohioideo en mujeres (63 por ciento); se presentó bilateralmente en 72 por ciento de los casos, con mayor prevalencia en el rango etario de 61 a 70 años. Conclusión: la prevalencia de alteraciones en el complejo estilohioideo en las radiografías analizadas fue de 36 por ciento, la mayoría con presentación bilateral; predominó en mujeres del grupo etario referido(AU)

Introduction: alterations of the stylohyoid chain are common, taking the shape of styloid process elongation and stylohyoid ligament ossification. Changes may either be asymptomatic or trigger a number of symptoms such as headache. Objective: determine the prevalence of styloid process elongation and stylohyoid ligament ossification in panoramic radiographs based on distribution by age, sex and affected side. Methods: examination was conducted of 300 digital panoramic radiographs from the registries of a dental radiology service. Radiographs were randomly selected from among those performed in 2012, and evaluated by a single researcher. The radiographs considered were those in which the temporal styloid process exceeded in more than 1 cm the lowermost edge of the earlobe cartilage and those in which the stylohyoid ligament was radiopaque. Results: the study found 108 radiographs (36 percent) meeting these requirements. There was a higher prevalence of styloid process elongation and/or stylohyoid ligament ossification among women (63 percent), whereas the condition was bilateral in 72 percent of the cases, with a predominance of the 61-70 age group. Conclusion: prevalence of alterations of the stylohyoid complex in the radiographs analyzed was 36 percent. Most alterations were bilateral. There was a predominance of women from the above-mentioned age group(AU)

Micro-computed Tomographic Analysis of Mandibular Second Molars with C-shaped Root Canals.

INTRODUCTION: The goal of the present study was to evaluate the morphometric aspects of the internal anatomy of the root canal system of mandibular second molars with C-shaped canals. METHODS: Fifty-two extracted second mandibular molars with C-shaped canals, fused roots, and radicular grooves were selected from a Brazilian population. The samples were scanned with a micro-computed tomographic scanner at a voxel size of 19.6 µm. The root canal cross sections were recorded as C1, C2, C3, and C4 root canal configurations according to the modified Melton classification. Morphometric parameters, including the major and minor diameters of the root canals, the aspect ratio, the roundness, and the tridimensional configuration (merging, symmetric, and asymmetric), were evaluated. RESULTS: The 3-dimensional reconstruction images of the teeth indicated an even distribution within the sample. The analysis of the prevalence of the different cross-sectional configurations of the C-shaped molars revealed that these were predominantly of the C4 and C3 configurations (1 mm from the apex) and the C1 and C2 configurations in the cervical third. According to the morphometric parameters, the C1 and the distal aspect of the C2 configurations exhibited the lowest roundness values and higher values for the area, major diameter, and aspect ratio in the apical third. CONCLUSIONS: Mandibular molars with C-shaped root canals exhibited similar distributions of symmetric, asymmetric, and merging type canals. The C1 configuration and the distal aspect of the C2 configuration exhibited the highest area values, low roundness values, and large apical diameters.

Microscopic analysis of the quality of obturation and physical properties of MTA Fillapex.

This study analyzed the quality of obturation and physical properties of MTA Fillapex and AH Plus sealer. A sample of 30 human maxillary central incisors were instrumented with Protaper until a F5 (50/05) file. Both sealers were mixed with Rhodamine-B dye to allow visualization on a confocal laser-scanning microscope (CLSM). Next, the canals were filled using the single cone technique. After setting, all samples were sectioned at 2, 4, and 6 mm from the apex. CLSM was used to analyze the gaps and sealer penetration into the dentinal tubules. All samples were scanned 10 µm below the dentin surface and images were recorded at 100× magnification using the fluorescent mode. Additionally, the solubility, flowability and setting time of the sealers were evaluated. All the measured quantities of the examined materials were evaluated for significant differences by means of statistical analysis. The CLSM analysis of the MTA Fillapex showed the highest percentage of gaps at all sections (P = 0.0001). Physical tests revealed adequate properties for both sealers except for a higher solubility of the MTA Fillapex (P = 0.0001). The MTA Fillapex presented flowability and intratubular penetration similar to the AH Plus. Nevertheless, the MTA Fillapex sealer presented a higher solubility and considerable quantity of gaps between the sealer/dentin interface in relation to the AH Plus sealer. Clinicians must take into consideration, the quality of endodontic sealers as it is essential in the outcome of the root canal filling.

Apical adaptation, sealing ability and push-out bond strength of five root-end filling materials.

This study compared the fluid filtration, adaptation to the root canal walls, and the push-out bond strength of two resin-based sealers and three calcium silicate-based retrograde filling materials. Fifty maxillary canines were shaped using manual instruments and the apical portion was sectioned. Retrograde cavities of 3-mm depth were prepared. The specimens were divided into five groups (n = 10): Sealer 26 (S26); MBPc (experimental); MTA; Portland cement with 20% zirconium oxide (PC/ZO), and Portland cement with 20% calcium tungstate (PC/CT). The fluid filtration was measured at 7 and 15 days. To evaluate the interfacial adaptation, sections of the teeth, 1 and 2 mm from the apex, were prepared and the percentage of gaps was calculated. The push-out bond strength at 2 mm from the apex was evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using the ANOVA/Tukey's test (p < 0.05). At 7 and 15 days (p = 0.0048, p = 0.006), the PC/CT group showed higher fluid filtration values when compared to other groups. At 1 mm from the apex, no statistical differences in the adaptation were found among the cements (p = 0.44). At 2 mm from the apex, the PC/ZO group presented statistically lower percentage of gaps than S26, MBPc, and MTA (p = 0.0007). The MBPc group showed higher push-out bond strength than other cements evaluated (p = 0.0008). The fluid filtration and interfacial adaptation of the calcium silicate-based cements were similar to those of the resin-based cements. The resinous cement MBPc showed superior push-out bond strength.

Influence of ultrasonic activation of 4 root canal sealers on the filling quality.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of ultrasonic activation on the filling quality (intratubular sealer penetration, interfacial adaptation, and presence of voids) of 4 epoxy resin-based sealers. METHODS: Eighty-four extracted human canines were divided into 4 groups (n = 20) according to the sealer used to obturate the root canals instrumented with F5 ProTaper instruments (50/05) (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland). The canals were filled by the lateral compaction technique. Previously, the sealers were labeled with rhodamine B dye to allow analysis under a confocal microscope. At the time of obturation, the specimens were divided again into 2 groups (n = 10) according to the ultrasonic activation of the sealers: ultrasonically activated and nonultrasonically activated groups. All samples were sectioned at 2, 4, and 6 mm from the apex. The percentages of voids, gaps, and dentinal sealer penetration segments of the canal were analyzed. RESULTS: Regarding the sealer penetration segments, there was a significant increase for the AH Plus (Dentsply Maillefer), Acroseal (Specialités Septodont, Saint Maur-des-Fossés, France), and Sealer 26 (Dentsply Maillefer) at the 4-mm level and the AH Plus and Sealer 26 at the 6-mm level with ultrasonic activation (P < .05). Concerning the gaps, the ultrasonic activation promoted a smaller presence for all sealers at the 4- and 6-mm levels (P < .05). No statistical significant differences were found for the percentages of voids (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: The use of ultrasonic activation of an epoxy resin-based sealer promoted greater dentinal sealer penetration and less presence of gaps.

Idiopathic Osteosclerosis of the Jaw in a Brazilian Population: a Retrospective Study.

OBJECTIVES: To report cases of idiopathic osteosclerosis (IO), to review the literature on the subject, and to discuss its main characteristics, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of 354 panoramic radiographs, searching for IO, its size, shape, location, and noting patients' demographic information. Literature review used Medline and Lilacs databases and the terms idiopathic osteosclerosis OR bone sclerosis OR dense bone island AND jaws. RESULTS: IO was identified in 5.6% of the radiographs (n=20 patients, 22 foci). Patients were healthy, with an age ranging from 5 to 51 years (mean=29.8), with male-female ratio of 3:2. IOs were found mainly in the premolar/molar region, at root apices, between roots, away from the teeth, laterally to the tooth, and in edentulous areas. The distribution between right and left sides of the jaw was equal for the 22 foci, with only one case in the maxilla. IOs were localized, well-defined, radiopaque, mostly round or ovoid in shape, but sometimes irregular. In some cases, IOs were similar to condensing osteitis, but differential diagnosis also considered complex odontoma, focal cemento-osseous dysplasia, and residual roots. Twenty studies on the topic were reviewed. CONCLUSIONS: Incidence of IO in the Brazilian sample was 5.6%, with age ranging from 5 to 51 years (mean=29.8), and male-female ratio of 3:2. The radiopacities occurred in different locations, with significant prevalence in the mandible. The findings and the literature review corroborate the hypothesis that IO should be considered developmental variation of normal bone that does not require treatment.