Technological advances, such as 3D X-ray imaging, have helped to increase the success of root canal treatment, by providing practitioners with more information about the structure of the tooth and the surrounding tissues.
Richard Kahan, director of the Academy of Advanced Endodontics in Harley Street, explained: “High resolution 3D CBCT radiography is the most significant development in endodontics since the microscope. The extra dimension and superior resolution substantially enhance the level of advice and treatment on offer to patients.”
Every tooth is unique, and 3D CBCT scanning helps to form an exact picture of the specific root morphology. It creates a clear representation of complex root structures and teeth with multiple roots. This allows the dentist to judge precisely how adjacent anatomy might be affected.
Standard 2D radiography may not provide enough information for clinicians to accurately diagnose and plan treatment of periapical lesions. The detection of apical pathology is dependent on the size of the lesion, which often only becomes visible once the cortical bone is involved. High quality CBCT scans can identify infection earlier, enabling timely and less invasive treatment. 3D radiography can also avoid the patient suffering unnecessary re-treatment of difficult to diagnose endodontic problems.
The additional information provided by CBCT can significantly enhance the endodontist’s understanding of the clinical situation. This enables a predictable treatment plan to be established, with a good prognosis. Any practitioner should be aware of the power of 3D imagery and its value in complex endodontic treatment planning.
Vida Adib of EndoClinic, Cockfosters, explains why using 3D scanning is becoming an integral part of the diagnostic process and treatment planning for complex endodontic cases: “In certain procedures relating to major anatomical issues, such as nerves and sinuses, the 3D imagery can provide vital information which would not be picked up in 2D. It gives much more detail, which allows you to tackle the procedure more accurately.”
The smallest detail is essential to fully understand the formation of the root canal and the curvature of the root. It is, therefore, important to have the right imaging system to provide this information. The Morita Veraviewepocs 3D F40 has been developed to provide safe and accurate X-ray images, particularly for endodontic practice. The system offers up to three times the image detail of other 3D X-ray systems. For complex endodontic procedures, it shows the smallest detail in quality in just a few seconds. It gives an exact view down into the individual root structures, with all the information needed for treatment planning.
The Morita Veraviewepocs 3D F40 is a new cone beam CT system designed with endodontists in mind. The high resolution, small field of view, three-dimensional scans are ideal for assessment of complex endodontic problems.
The technology is proving increasingly indispensable in endodontics and implant dentistry, and in oral surgery diagnosis and treatment planning.