3D Computer aided treatment planning in endodontics

Wicher J van der Meer; Arjan Vissink; Yuan Ling Ng; Kishor Gulabivala

doi:10.1016/j.jdent.2015.11.007

3D Computer aided treatment planning in endodontics

J Dent. 2016 Feb:45:67-72. doi: 10.1016/j.jdent.2015.11.007. Epub 2015 Nov 25.

Authors

Wicher J van der Meer¹, Arjan Vissink², Yuan Ling Ng³, Kishor Gulabivala⁴

Affiliations

¹ Unit of Endodontology, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK; Department of Orthodontics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
² Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
³ Unit of Endodontology, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK.
⁴ Unit of Endodontology, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK. Electronic address: k.gulabivala@ucl.ac.uk.

PMID: 26627596
DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2015.11.007

Abstract

Objectives: Obliteration of the root canal system due to accelerated dentinogenesis and dystrophic calcification can challenge the achievement of root canal treatment goals. This paper describes the application of 3D digital mapping technology for predictable navigation of obliterated canal systems during root canal treatment to avoid iatrogenic damage of the root.

Methods: Digital endodontic treatment planning for anterior teeth with severely obliterated root canal systems was accomplished with the aid of computer software, based on cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) scans and intra-oral scans of the dentition. On the basis of these scans, endodontic guides were created for the planned treatment through digital designing and rapid prototyping fabrication.

Results: The custom-made guides allowed for an uncomplicated and predictable canal location and management.

Conclusion: The method of digital designing and rapid prototyping of endodontic guides allows for reliable and predictable location of root canals of teeth with calcifically metamorphosed root canal systems.

Clinical significance: The endodontic directional guide facilitates difficult endodontic treatments at little additional cost.

Keywords: 3D printing; 3D treatment planning; Directional guide; Endodontic; Obliteration; Rapid prototyping.

MeSH terms

Computer-Aided Design
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / methods
Dental Pulp Cavity
Endodontics / methods*
Humans
Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation
Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / methods*
Imaging, Three-Dimensional / instrumentation
Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods*
Models, Dental
Patient Care Planning*
Printing, Three-Dimensional
Root Canal Therapy / methods*
Software
Tooth Root