FEATURE DENTISTRY
single root and single canal and a fused mandibular second molar and paramolar respectively. Both of which have been diagnosed and endodontically treated with the aid of Spiral CT, proving its objective in the assessment of root canal morphology. Conventional radiography
produces a 2D image and can lead to superimposition of the root canals. CT not only helps in understanding the root canal system, but it can also give an accurate measurement for the morphology of the root canal system. It also provides the ability to perform 3D reconstructions of image data sets. In CT, a series of 2D image data sets can be integrated mathematically to produce cross sections in any plane or 3D images. CT has been used successfully in
clinical dentistry for detecting root canal filling materials and metal posts, caries and relationships between maxillary sinus and root. Youssefzadeh et al showed that CT could be useful in diagnosing the vertical fracture. Jin et al have reported that CT can also be used as a tool for mass study of the root canal without surgical intervention.
CONCLUSION Inadequate cleaning and shaping, improper diagnosis and inadequate location of root canal systems are considered to be one of the most important factors for endodontic failure. To avoid this, the endodontist must consider the judicious use of high- end diagnostic imaging techniques for successful management of complicated cases. Since, CT requires an elaborate
gentry, and its high cost in addition to which it also requires the guidance and
Conventional radiography produces a 2D image and can lead to superimposition of the root canals
support of a trained radiologist it is not very frequently used. Also it has a high radiation dose, long scan time and inability of its use in day to day dental practice limits its contributions to the field of endodontics. In order to overcome the above,
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT or CBVT) has been introduced. When compared to medical CT, CBCT has increased accuracy, higher resolution, reduced scan time, a reduction in radiation dose, and reduced cost for the patient. As compared to conventional
radiography it also eliminates superimposition of surrounding structures, providing additional clinically relevant information. However, its drawbacks also
include limited availability, significant
capital investment, and medico legal considerations, but, as CBVT technology evolves clinicians will be able to adopt 3D imaging into their diagnostic repertoire because accurate diagnostic information leads to better clinical outcomes. ■
ID
REFERENCES References available on request. (
magazine@informa.com)
Imaging & Diagnostics Issue 3 2011 29
Image © AUTHOR
Image © AUTHOR
Image © AUTHOR
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42