Influence of photobiomodulation therapy on root development of rat molars with open apex and pulp necrosis

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the role of photobiomodulation (PBM) in apexification and apexogenesis of necrotic rat molars with an open apex. Rat molars were exposed to the oral environment for 3 weeks. Canals were rinsed with 2.5% NaOCl and 17% EDTA, filled with antibiotic paste and sealed. After 7 days, canals were rinsed and divided into six groups (n=6): mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA); blood clot (BC); human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSC); MTA+PBM; BC+PBM; and hDPSC+PBM. In hDPSC groups, a 1% agarose gel scaffold was used. Two groups were not exposed: healthy tooth+PBM (n = 6), healthy tooth (n = 3); and one was exposed throughout the experiment: necrotic tooth (n = 3). In PBM groups, irradiation was performed with aluminum gallium indium phosphide (InGaAlP) diode laser for 30 days within 24-h intervals. After that, the specimens were processed for histological and immunohistochemical analyses. Necrotic tooth showed greater neutrophil infiltrate (p < 0.05). Necrotic tooth, healthy tooth, and healthy tooth+PBM groups showed absence of a thin layer of fibrous condensation in the periapical area. All the other groups stimulated the formation of a thicker layer of fibers (p < 0.05). All groups formed more mineralized tissue than necrotic tooth (p < 0.05). PBM associated with MTA, BC, or hDPSC formed more mineralized tissue (p < 0.05). MTA+PBM induced apexification (p < 0.05). Rabbit polyclonal anti-bone sialoprotein (BSP) antibody confirmed the histological findings of mineralized tissue formation, and hDPSC groups exhibited higher percentage of BSP-positive cells. It can be concluded that PBM improved apexification and favored apexogenesis in necrotic rat molars with an open apex.

Unusual Deviation of the Main Foramen from the Root Apex

Abstract The relationship of the main foramen to the anatomic root apex has been the subject of several studies. Although they are anatomically close, they rarely coincide, and their distance can vary according to age or tooth type, ranging from 0.2 to 3.0 mm. The aim of this short communication was to evaluate the distance between the main foramen of independent middle mesial canals (MMCs) and the anatomical mesial root apex of mandibular first molars using the micro-computed tomography. Twenty-five mandibular first molars with MMCs were scanned (resolution of 9.9 µm), and the distance from its main foramen to the anatomical apex was evaluated. Overall, the distance ranged from 0.2 to 2.4 mm; however, in 3 specimens the distance was greater than 3 mm. This report demonstrates that the exit of the main foramen of the MMC varies considerably and could approach a substantial distance from the anatomical apex greater than previously reported in the literature.

Resumo A relação do forame principal com o ápice anatômico da raiz tem sido objeto de vários estudos. Embora estejam anatomicamente próximos, eles raramente coincidem, e a sua distância pode variar de acordo com a idade ou o tipo de dente, oscilando entre 0,2 e 3,0 mm. O objetivo deste artigo é relatar que a saída foraminal do canal mediano (MMC), presente na raiz mesial de molares inferiores, pode apresentar variações significativas, atingindo distâncias acima de 3 mm do ápice anatômico. Vinte e cinco primeiros molares inferiores com MMC foram escaneados (resolução de 9,9 mm) e a distância do forame principal ao ápice anatômico avaliada. Em geral, a distância mostrou variações consideráveis; no entanto, em 3 espécimes esta distância ficou acima de 3 mm. Este estudo teve como objetivo relatar que a saída do forame principal de canais medianos de primeiros molares inferiores pode apresentar variações consideráveis, podendo atingir distâncias maiores do que as relatadas previamente na literatura.

Influence of Apical Preparation Size and Working Length on Debris Extrusion

Abstract The aim of this study was to quantitatively evaluate the amount of apically extruded debris by single-file reciprocating instruments with different working lengths and apical preparation sizes. Eighty human single-rooted mandibular incisors were used and conventional access cavities were prepared. Then, the specimens were divided into four groups (n=20), according to root canal instrumentation: Reciproc size 25, .08 taper and Reciproc size 40, .06 taper instruments were used at the foramen; Reciproc size 25, .08 taper and Reciproc size 40, .06 taper instruments were used 1 mm short of the foramen. Distilled water was used as an irrigant and the apically extruded debris were collected in pre-weighted glass vials and dried afterwards. The mean weight of debris was weighed with a microbalance and statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and the post hoc Tukey multiple comparison test (p<0.05). The results showed that all experimental groups were associated with debris extrusion. No significant difference was found in the amount of apically extruded debris among all experimental groups (p>0.05). The present study demonstrated that the working length and the apical preparation size did not have a significant effect on debris extrusion when performing single-file reciprocating instrumentation.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou quantitativamente a quantidade de material extruído apicalmente pela instrumentação com lima única reciprocante, aplicando diferentes comprimentos de trabalho e tamanhos de preparo apical. Para a análise de extrusão foram utilizados oitenta incisivos inferiores unirradiculares humanos. Cavidades de acesso convencionais foram preparadas e os espécimes foram divididos em quatro grupos (n=20), de acordo com o tipo de instrumentação do canal: Reciproc 25, 0.08 e Reciproc 40, 0.06 foram utilizadas na instrumentação até o forame; Reciproc tamanho 25, 0.08 e Reciproc 40, 0,06 foram utilizadas na instrumentação até 1 mm aquém do forame. Água destilada foi empregada como irrigante e o material extruído apicalmente foi coletado em frascos de vidro já pesados e posteriormente submetidos a secagem. O peso médio de detritos foi avaliado com uma microbalança de precisão e os dados submetidos a ANOVA e teste Tukey (p<0,05). Todos os grupos experimentais foram associados à extrusão de debris. Nenhuma diferença significativa foi encontrada na quantidade de material extruído apicalmente entre os grupos (p>0,05). Este estudo demonstrou que o comprimento de trabalho e o tamanho do preparo apical não geraram efeito significativo sobre a extrusão de debris durante a instrumentação reciprocante.

Evaluación del ProPex II en la determinación de la longitud de trabajo en dientes con reabsorción radicular apical vestibular / Evaluation of ProPex II in the determination of working length in teeth with apical root buccal resorption

Objetivo: evaluar la capacidad del ProPex II (Dentsply-Maillefer, Ballaigues, Suiza) para determinar la longitud de trabajo end dientes que presentaban una reabsorción radicular apical en la cara vestibular que invade el conducto radicular. Materiales y métodos: en este estudio ex vivo, se emplearon 56 dientes humanos extraidos de raiz y conducto unico, con apices maduros. Se realizaron las cavidades de acceso y se prepararon los tercios coronario ymedio con fresas de Gates-Glidden Nº 1, 2 y 3 (Dentsply,-Maillefer, Ballaigues, Suiza). Con una fresa redonda de carburo-tungsteno se talló, en la cara bucal de la zona apical de cada diente, un defecto qie simulara una reabsorción apical que invade el conducto radicular. Posteriormente, se insertó una lima tipo K en el conducto de cada especimen hasta observar, con un microscopio óptico, que la punta del instrumento alcanzara la salida apical del conducto en la zona de reabsorción. A esta medida se le redujo 0,5 mm para obtener la longitud visual. A continuación, las raíces de los dientes fueron sumergidas hasta el cuello en tubos de plástico que contenían una esponja embebida en solución salina. Para cada diente se seleccionó una lima tipo K que se introdujo de forma paulatina en el conducto hasta alcanzar la señal 0,5 en el display del aparato. Se ajustó el tope a la superficie de referencia de la corona y la lima fue removida del conducto a fin de medir con una regla endodóntica la longitud de trabajo. A posteriori, el mismo instrumento fue introducido en el conducto hasta que apareció la señal over y luego fue retirándose lentamente hasta que el display indicó 0,5. Se fijó el tope de goma a la referencia incisal y se retiró el instrumento para medirlo y determinar la longitud de trabajo de egreso. Todas las medidas registradas fueron volcadas en una planilla de diseño especial. A continuación se compararon las medidas electrónicas de ingreso y egreso entre sí y con las longitudes visuales, con un nivel.

Comparative photoelastic study of dental and skeletal anchorages in the canine retraction

OBJECTIVE: To compare dental and skeletal anchorages in mandibular canine retraction by means of a stress distribution analysis. METHODS: A photoelastic model was produced from second molar to canine, without the first premolar, and mandibular canine retraction was simulated by a rubber band tied to two types of anchorage: dental anchorage, in the first molar attached to adjacent teeth, and skeletal anchorage with a hook simulating the mini-implant. The forces were applied 10 times and observed in a circular polariscope. The stresses located in the mandibular canine were recorded in 7 regions. The Mann-Whitney test was employed to compare the stress in each region and between both anchorage systems. The stresses in the mandibular canine periradicular regions were compared by the Kruskal-Wallis test. RESULTS: Stresses were similar in the cervical region and the middle third. In the apical third, the stresses associated with skeletal anchorage were higher than the stresses associated with dental anchorage. The results of the Kruskal-Wallis test showed that the highest stresses were identified in the cervical-distal, apical-distal, and apex regions with the use of dental anchorage, and in the apical-distal, apical-mesial, cervical-distal, and apex regions with the use of skeletal anchorage. CONCLUSIONS: The use of skeletal anchorage in canine retraction caused greater stress in the apical third than the use of dental anchorage, which indicates an intrusive component resulting from the direction of the force due to the position of the mini-implant and the bracket hook of the canine. .

OBJETIVO: comparar as ancoragens dentária e esquelética na retração do canino inferior, por meio do estudo da distribuição de tensões. MÉTODOS: foi confeccionado um modelo fotoelástico de segundo molar a canino, sem o primeiro pré-molar, e simulada a retração do canino inferior com elástico preso a dois tipos de ancoragem: dentária, no primeiro molar conjugado aos dentes adjacentes; e ancoragem esquelética, em gancho simulando o mini-implante. As forças foram aplicadas 10 vezes e observadas no polariscópio circular. As tensões no canino inferior foram registradas em 7 regiões. O teste de Mann-Whitney foi aplicado para comparar as tensões em cada região, considerando os dois sistemas de ancoragem. As tensões nas regiões perirradiculares do canino foram comparadas pelo teste de Kruskal-Wallis. RESULTADOS: as tensões foram similares tanto na região cervical quanto no terço médio. No terço apical, as tensões associadas à ancoragem esquelética foram maiores que as tensões associadas à ancoragem dentária. Os resultados do teste de Kruskal-Wallis mostraram que as maiores tensões foram identificadas nas regiões cervicodistal, apicodistal e na região do ápice com o uso da ancoragem dentária; e com o uso da ancoragem esquelética, as maiores tensões se localizaram nas regiões apicodistal, apicomesial, cervicodistal e no ápice. CONCLUSÃO: o uso de ancoragem esquelética na retração promoveu maior tensão no terço apical do que o uso da ancoragem dentária, indicando um componente intrusivo devido à direção da força decorrente da posição do mini-implante e do gancho do braquete do canino. .

Force distribution is more important than its intensity!

A common question about root resorption is raised in orthodontic practice: What is more important, the intensity of force or its distribution along the root, periodontal and alveolar structures? Diffuse distribution of forces applied to periodontal tissues during tooth movement tends not to promote neither extensive areas of cell matrix hyalinization nor significant death of cementoblasts that lead to root resorption. However, focal distribution or concentration of forces within a restricted area - as it occurs in tipping movements, even with forces of lower intensity - tend to induce extensive areas of hyalinization and focal death of cementoblasts, which is commonly associated with root resorption. In tipping movements, the apical regions tend to concentrate more forces in addition to wounding the cementoblasts due to the smaller dimension of their root structure as well as their cone shape. For this reason, there is an increase in root resorption. In the cervical region, on the other hand, the large area resulting from a large diameter and bone crown deflection tends to reduce the effects of forces, even when they are more concentrated, thus rarely inducing death of cementoblasts and root resorption.

Um questionamento comum sobre as reabsorções radiculares na prática ortodôntica: "O que é mais importante? A intensidade das forças aplicadas ou sua distribuição ao longo das estruturas radiculares, periodontais e alveolares?" A distribuição difusa das forças aplicadas sobre os tecidos periodontais durante o movimento dentário de corpo tende a não promover extensas áreas de hialinização da matriz extracelular, nem morte significativa de cementoblastos que levariam à reabsorção radicular. Porém, a distribuição focal ou concentração de forças - como nas inclinações, mesmo nas de menor intensidade - em uma área restrita tende a induzir áreas extensas de hialinização e morte focal de cementoblastos, associando-se mais comumente à reabsorção radicular. Nos movimentos de inclinação, as áreas apicais, por sua menor dimensão da estrutura radicular e sua forma cônica, tendem a concentrar mais ainda as forças e lesar cementoblastos, aumentando a frequência das reabsorções radiculares. Na região cervical, a maior área decorrente do maior diâmetro e a deflexão óssea da crista óssea tendem a reduzir os efeitos das forças, mesmo quando mais concentradas, muito raramente induzindo a morte de cementoblastos e reabsorções radiculares.

Microscopic evaluation of induced tooth movement after subluxation trauma: an experimental study in rats

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the histological alterations that occurred in the periodontal area of rat molars submitted to induced tooth movement (ITM) right after an intentional trauma (subluxation). METHODS: Forty adult male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus) were selected. The animals were divided into eight groups (n = 5), according to the combination of variables: Group 1 - control (neither trauma nor ITM); Group 2 - ITM; Groups 3, 4, 5 and 6 - dentoalveolar trauma groups corresponding, respectively, to 1, 3, 8 and 10 days after trauma; Groups 7 and 8 - the animals' molars were subjected to a 900 cN impact and, one and three days after the trauma event, tooth movement was induced. The rats' maxillary first molars were mesially moved during seven days with a closed coil (50 cN). After the experimental period of each group, the animals were sacrificed by anesthetic overdose and the right maxillas were removed and processed for histological analysis under light microscopy. RESULTS: In the animals of group 3, 4, 5 and 6, the histological alterations were not very significant. Consequently, the effect of induced tooth movement right after a subluxation event (groups 7 and 8) was very similar to those described for Group 2. CONCLUSION: There was no difference in the quality of periodontal repair when ITM was applied to teeth that had suffered a subluxation trauma. .

OBJETIVO: avaliar as alterações histológicas ocorridas na área periodontal de molares de ratos submetidos à movimentação dentária induzida (MDI), logo após um trauma intencional (subluxação). MÉTODOS: quarenta ratos Wistar machos adultos (Rattus norvegicus albinus) foram selecionados. Os animais foram divididos em oito grupos (n = 5), de acordo com a combinação das variáveis: Grupo 1 - controle (sem trauma e sem MDI); Grupo 2 - MDI; Grupos 3, 4, 5 e 6 - grupos de trauma dentoalveolar correspondendo, respectivamente, para 1, 3, 8 e 10 dias após o trauma; Grupos 7 e 8 - os molares murinos foram submetidos a um impacto de 900cN e, de um e três dias após o evento trauma, o movimento do dente foi induzido. Os primeiros molares superiores dos animais foram movidos mesialmente durante sete dias, com uma mola fechada (50cN). Após período experimental de cada grupo, os animais foram sacrificados por overdose anestésica e as maxilas direitas foram removidas e processadas para análise histológica qualitativa. RESULTADOS: nos animais dos grupos 3, 4, 5 e 6, as alterações histológicas não foram muito significativas. Consequentemente, o efeito do movimento dentário induzido logo após um evento de subluxação (grupos 7 e 8) foi muito semelhante ao descrito para o grupo 2. CONCLUSÃO: não houve diferença na qualidade do reparo periodontal quando a MDI foi aplicada aos dentes que sofreram um trauma de subluxação. .

Revascularização pulpar: considerações técnicas e implicações clinícas / Pulp revascularization: technical considerations and clinical implications

O tratamento endodôntico de dentes portadores de necrose pulpar e rizogênese incompleta têm sido tratados, recentemente, por meio da revascularização pulpar. Essa promissora alternativa de tratamento promove tanto o fechamento apical quanto o término do desenvolvimento radicular. Atualmente vários protocolos têm sido propostos, entretanto pouco se sabe sobre o sucesso por meio da instrumentação mecânica e do uso de medicações a base de hidróxido de cálcio ou pasta tri-antibiótica nos casos com indicação de revascularização pulpar. Objetivo : O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão da literatura abordando os protocolos de revascularização e suas implicações clínicas para o tratamento de dentes portadores de necrose pulpar e ápices incompletos. Resultados e discussão: As causas que normalmente interrompem a formação radicular são os traumatismos dentários e cáries dentárias, que podem causar a necrose pulpar. Sendo assim, os dentes que apresentam rizogênese incompleta e necrose pulpar geralmente eram tratados pelo método de apicificação ou mesmo a confecção de um plug apical de MTA, a fim de conseguir a formação de uma barreira apical. Porém, através desse método, as raízes continuam com as paredes dentinárias finas e fragilizadas. Conclusão: Com base nessa revisão, pode-se concluir que a revascularização pulpar é uma alternativa como tratamento para dentes com rizogênese incompleta portadores de necrose pulpar, porém, não há um protocolo estabelecido e considerado ideal...

Endodontic treatment of immature teeth with necrotic pulp and incomplete root formation has been recently treated with pulp revascularization. It is a promising alternative treatment to promote apical closure and root development. To date, a variety of revascularization protocols have been described, however little is known about the success of combining mechanical instrumentation and intracanal medication such as calcium hydroxide or triantibiotic paste. Thus, the aim of this study is to present a review of literature of pulp revascularization protocols and its clinical implications for treatment of teeth with pulp necrosis and incomplete apex. The causes that usually interrupt the root formation are dental traumatisms and caries, which can lead to pulp necrosis. Therefore, the immature permanent teeth and pulp necrosis were usually treated by apexification or the confection of an apical MTA plug, in order to accomplish the formation of an apical barrier. However, by this method, the roots canal walls remain thin and fragile. It may be concluded that the pulp revascularization treatment is an alternative approach for immature permanent teeth with pulp necrosis. However, there is not a standardized protocol that is considered ideal in these cases...

Long-term evaluation of apical root resorption after orthodontic treatment using periapical radiography and cone beam computed tomography

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the frequency of Apical Root Resorption (ARR) after orthodontic treatment at 52-288 months using periapical radiography (PR) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). METHODS: Radiographic images obtained from 58 patients, before (T1) and after orthodontic treatment (T2), and following 52-288 months of treatment were analyzed by three members of the Brazilian Board of Orthodontics. Apical structures were evaluated by PR images (T2 and T3), using Levander and Malmgren scores. The presence of ARR on CBCT images were detected only at T3. The Kolmogorov-Smirnov test was used for statistical analyses, and the level of significance was set at 5%. Kappa statistics determined interobserver agreement. RESULTS: The more frequent ARR were with scores 1 in T2 (51.6%) and T3 (53.1%), when evaluated by PR (p > 0.05). When compared the frequencies of ARR in T3 among PR and CBCT images, the differences were significant for maxillary and mandibular pre-molar groups, and for mandibular molar group (p > 0.05). The teeth with highest frequency of ARR presence using CBCT images were maxillary lateral incisors (94.5%) and mandibular central incisors (87.7%), while the premolars showed the lowest frequency. The CBCT images showed that the teeth involved in orthodontic treatment with extraction present higher ARR frequency (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PR showed more frequency of ARR in posterior teeth groups when compared with CBCT images. ARR did not change in long-term post treatment.

OBJETIVO: avaliar a frequência de reabsorção radicular apical (RRA) após tratamento ortodôntico, em longo prazo, por meio de imagens de radiografia periapical (RP) e tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC). MÉTODOS: as imagens radiográficas obtidas de dentes de 58 pacientes, antes (T1), após o tratamento ortodôntico (T2) e decorridos pelo menos 52 meses do tratamento (T3), foram analisadas por três examinadores, membros do Board Brasileiro de Ortodontia e Ortopedia Facial. As estruturas apicais foram avaliadas por meio de imagens de RP (T2 e T3), utilizando o sistema de escores de Levander e Malmgren modificado. A presença de RRA nas imagens tomográficas obtidas em T3 foi detectada por um especialista em radiologia com experiência em TCFC. Os dados foram estatisticamente analisados pelo teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov, com nível de significância de 5%. O teste kappa determinou o nível de concordância entre os observadores. RESULTADOS: as RRAs mais frequentes foram as de escore 1 em T2 (51,6%) e em T3 (53,1%), quando avaliadas por RPs (p > 0,05). Quando comparadas as frequências de RRAs em T3, entre imagens de RP e de TCFC, a diferença foi estatisticamente significativa para o grupo de pré-molares da maxila e da mandíbula, e de molares mandibulares. Os dentes que apresentaram maior frequência de RRA quando analisados por meio de imagens de TCFC, foram os incisivos laterais superiores (94,5%) e os centrais inferiores (87,7%), enquanto os de menor frequência foram os pré-molares. As imagens de TCFC mostraram que os dentes envolvidos em tratamentos ortodônticos com extrações apresentaram maior frequência de RRA (p < 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: as radiografias periapicais mostraram maior frequência de RRAs que as imagens de TCFC para os grupos de pré-molares e molares, não evidenciando alteração em longo prazo.

Apical Barrier Formation After Incomplete Orthograde MTA Apical Plug Placement in Teeth with Open Apex - Report of Two Cases

Two cases are reported in which incomplete placement of 4 mm mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) plug was performed unintentionally at the apical third of permanent immature teeth with open apex and apical periodontitis. As confirmed radiographically, there were gaps between MTA and dentinal walls along the MTA-dentin interface. After setting of MTA was confirmed, endodontic treatment was completed and access was sealed with composite resin. At 6 to 16 months follow-up examinations, formation of dentin in contact with the MTA surface, as well as apical closure and periapical healing were ideied radiographically for both cases. The results of these cases showed that apical barrier formation and complete periapical healing is possible despite the incomplete apical placement of the MTA plug. This might be due to the biological properties of the MTA. Even so, an incomplete three-dimensional placement of the filling material is not advocated.

Healing of a tooth with an overinstrumented apex, extensive transportation and periapical lesion using a 5 mm calcium hydroxide apical plug: an 8-year follow-up report

Besides the risk of filling material extrusion throughout the apex, a satisfactory apical seal can be difficult to achieve in canals with open apices or iatrogenic enlargements of the apical constriction. These situations pose a challenge to root canal filling. This paper describes the root canal filling of a maxillary right canine with an overinstrumented apex, complete loss of the apical stop, extensive canal transportation and apical periodontitis. A 5 mm calcium hydroxide apical plug was placed before root canal filling. The plug was made by soaking paper points with saline, dipping the points in calcium hydroxide powder and then applying it to the apex several times, until a consistent apical plug was obtained. The canal was then irrigated with saline in order to remove any residual calcium hydroxide from the root canal walls, dried with paper points and obturated with an inverted #80 gutta-percha cone and zinc oxide-eugenol based sealer by the lateral condensation technique. An 8-year radiographic follow-up showed formation of mineralized tissue sealing the apical foramen, apical remodeling and no signs of apical periodontitis.

Além do risco de extrusão periapical de material obturador pelo ápice, pode ser difícil conseguir um bom selamento apical em dentes com rizogênese incompleta ou alargamentos iatrogênicos da constrição apical. Casos assim representam um desafio durante a obturação do canal. Este caso clínico descreve a obturação de um canino superior direito com perda total da constrição apical por sobreinstrumentação, transporte excessivo e lesão periapical. Antes da obturação foi feito um tampão apical de hidróxido de cálcio com 5 mm de extensão. Para a realização do tampão, pontas de papel absorvente foram umedecidas em soro fisiológico, levadas ao pó do hidróxido de cálcio para absorvê-lo e aplicadas várias vezes no ápice até se conseguir um tampão apical consistente. Em seguida o canal foi irrigado com solução salina para a remoção de eventuais resíduos de hidróxido de cálcio das suas paredes, secado com pontas de papel absorvente e obturado com um cone #80 de guta percha invertido e cimento obturador à base de óxido de zinco e eugenol pela técnica da condensação lateral. O acompanhamento radiográfico de 8 anos mostrou selamento apical por tecido mineralizado, remodelação do ápice e reparo da lesão periapical.

in vitro study of mesiobuccal root thickness of maxillary first molars

Understanding the internal anatomy of root canal system can significantly influence outcomes of root canal treatment. The aim of this in vitro study was to measure the thickness of mesiobuccal root at different levels in maxillary first molars. In this cross-sectional study, forty extracted human maxillary first molars were radiographed; accordingly, the mesial and distal root thicknesses of mesiobuccal [MB] roots were measured at four parallel horizontal levels. The samples were sectioned at the measured levels and then sections were scanned and saved in the computer. Buccal [B], Palatal [P], Mesial [M] and Distal [D] aspects of root thicknesses in single-canalled roots were measured. In two-canalled mesiobuccal roots, Distobuccal [DB] and Distopalatal [DP] aspects were evaluated alongside other measurements. Average radicular thickness in each aspect and each level was compared using ANOVA and t-test. A total of 25 had two canals and 15 had one canal in MB root. In single-canalled roots M and D aspects were the thinnest whereas in two-canalled samples, the thicknesses of DP and DB aspects were significantly less than others [P<0.001]. The B and P had the greatest thicknesses in all the samples. The results showed that special attention should be paid to "danger zone" areas of mesiobuccal maxillary first molar roots in order to avoid technical mishaps

Hipercementosis apicales y no apicales en raíces dentarias humanas / Apical and non-apical hypercementosis in human dental root

El cemento secundario del ápice radicular se deposita en forma lenta y continua durante toda la vida útil del diente, siendo su función compensar el desgaste producido por la masticación. En raras ocasiones podemos hallar en la raíz dental, a posteriori de una extracción dentaria, excesos de cementos redondeados u ovalados, bien delimitados y duros al tacto, ubicados en un sector radicular diferente al ápice. Nuestro objetivo fue comparar las características físicas y radiológicas de raíces dentales normales con aquéllas que presentan este tipo de formaciones que alteran la anatomía radicular. Fueron incluidos 20 dientes adultos con raíces normales y 20 con raíces donde se visualizaron estos depósitos. Las variables investigadas fueron edad, sexo, patologías generales y periodontales previas, tipo de diente extraído, ubicación en el arco dental, motivo de extracción, características de consistencia, color, aspecto y textura de todas las raíces. La imagen radiológica fue crucial para la inclusión de dientes con exceso de cemento. Se recolectó un total de 40 dientes adultos, cuya edad promedio fue de 61 años (16-79), 42.5 por ciento masculinos y 57.5 por ciento femeninos. Patología general presentó el 37.5 por ciento y periodontal el 55 por ciento, los dientes mas extraídos fueron premolares superiores del lado derecho 15 por ciento. La caries fue causa principal de extracción 72.5 por ciento. En ambos grupos las raíces fueron de consistencia dura y textura lisa. El aspecto nacarado fue de 70 por ciento y 60 por ciento, los colores claros 45 por ciento y 75 por ciento, respectivamente. En las radiografías se observó que el cemento no se diferenció de la dentina en el 40 por ciento y 85 por ciento de cada grupo (p=0.004). Los adultos pueden desarrollar anomalías de cemento ubicadas en otro sector del ápice si bien las características físicas de la raíz se consideran dentro de parámetros normales.

Secondary cementum is deposited in a root apical third throughout the lifespan of a tooth to compensate occlusal erosion, keeping dental pieces in occlusion contact. Pearls are more difficult to spot, found by X-rays or after extraction. Their ovoid or spherical aspect is well outlined, hard to touch, and located in different thirds of the root. Our objective was to compare physical and radiological dental normal roots characteristics with those presenting this type of formations that alter radicular anatomy. We used 20 normal roots and 20 pearl shapes. Variables compared: age, sex, previous general pathologies and periodontals; extracted tooth type, dental arch location, extraction cause, consistency characteristics, color, aspect and texture of all roots and pearls. Radiological image was crucial for incorporation of teeth with cementum excess. Proportions between normal pieces and pearls were calculated with Fisher's Exact Test, with 5 percent significance level. Average age was 61years (16-79), and male proportion was 42.5 percent and 57.5 percent female. General pathology presented 37.5 percent and periodontal 55 percent, more extracted teeth were right side upper premolars 15 percent. Caries were extraction chief motive 72.5 percent. Roots were of hard consistency and smooth texture in both groups; nacreous aspect was 65 percent, clear colors 75 percent. Pearl consistency was hard in all of them; white color 60 percent and root similar color 40 percent; nacreous aspect 75 percent and smooth texture 90 percent. In radiographs was observed that cementum did not differ from dentine in 85 percent of pearls and in 60 percent of normal roots (p=0.004). Adults can develop cementum anomalies located in another apex sector although the root physical characteristics are considered inside normal parameters.

Tissue reaction to Endométhasone sealer in root canal fillings short of or beyond the apical foramen

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the response of periapical tissues to the endodontic sealer Endométhasone in root canal fillings short of or beyond the apical foramen. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty root canals of premolars and incisors of 2 mongrel dogs were used. After coronal access and pulp extirpation, the canals were instrumented up to a size 55 K-file and the apical cemental barrier was penetrated with a size 15 K-file to obtain a main apical foramen, which was widened to a size 25 K-file. The canals were irrigated with saline at each change of file. The root canals were obturated either short of or beyond the apical foramen by the lateral condensation of gutta-percha and Endométhasone, originating 2 experimental groups: G1: Endométhasone/short of the apical foramen; G2: Endométhasone/beyond the apical foramen. The animals were killed by anesthetic overdose 90 days after endodontic treatment. The individual roots were obtained and serial histological sections were prepared for histomorphological analysis (H&E and Brown & Brenn techniques) under light microscopy. The following parameters were examined: closure of the apical foramen of the main root canal and apical opening of accessory canals, apical cementum resorption, intensity of the inflammatory infiltrate, presence of giant cells and thickness and organization of the apical periodontal ligament. Each parameter was scored 1 to 4, 1 being the best result and 4 the worst. Data were analyzed statistically by the Wilcoxon nonparametric tests (p=0.05). RESULTS: Comparing the 2 groups, the best result (p<0.05) was obtained with root canal filling with Endométhasone short of the apical foramen but a chronic inflammatory infiltrate was present in all specimens. CONCLUSIONS: Limiting the filling material to the root canal space apically is important to determine the best treatment outcome when Endométhasone is used as sealer.

Rotary Mtwo system versus manual K-file instruments: Efficacy in preparing primary and permanent molar root canals.

Aim: To compare the cleaning ability and preparation time of rotary instruments (Mtwo) and conventional manual instruments (K-file) in preparing primary and permanent molar root canals. Materials and Methods: Access cavities were prepared in 70 primary and 70 permanent teeth and India ink was injected into 120 canals of selected molars. The teeth were randomly divided into two main subgroups (n=20) and three control groups (n=10). In each of these main subgroups, either the manual instrument (K-file) or the rotary system (Mtwo) was used to prepare root canals. After cleaning the canals and clearing the teeth, dye removal was evaluated with the help of a stereomicroscope. In addition, the time needed for root canal preparation was recorded by a chronometer. Statistical Analysis: Statistical analyses were done using the Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney and t tests. Results: With regard to the cleaning ability of root canals, there were no significant differences between the K-file and Mtwo rotary system in primary and permanent teeth in the apical, middle or coronal third of the canals. Moreover, there were no significant differences between primary and permanent teeth prepared with K-files and rotary instruments. In all the groups, shorter times were recorded with the rotary technique. The working time was shorter in primary than in permanent teeth. Conclusion: The Mtwo rotary system showed acceptable cleaning ability in both primary and permanent teeth, and achieved results similar to those of K-files in less time.

Clinical management of a complicated crown-root fracture: a case report

This report describes the clinical procedures involved in the treatment of a complicated crown-root fracture in the maxillary left central incisor with a wide open apex of a 10-year-old male patient, due to fall from his own height. Post-trauma treatment comprised cervical pulpotomy and adhesive tooth fragment reattachment. After 1 year, clinical and radiograph examinations showed pulp necrosis and an associated periapical lesion. Endodontic therapy with calcium hydroxide-base intracanal dressing, root canal filling and orthodontic extrusion were performed. Extrusion was completed within approximately 16 weeks and the tooth was restored with a post-core system and a prosthetic crown. After a 3 years of follow-up, there was no evidence of apical periodontitis and the tooth was satisfactory both esthetically and functionally.

Este relato de caso apresenta os procedimentos clínicos envolvidos no tratamento de um caso de fratura corono-radicular complicada de um incisivo superior esquerdo com ápice aberto de um paciente de 10 anos de idade devido à queda da própria altura. O tratamento envolveu pulpotomia cervical e fixação do fragmento. Após 1 ano, os exames clínicos e radiográficos demonstraram necrose pulpar e lesão perirradicular associada. O tratamento endodôntico foi realizado com a utilização de pasta de hidróxido de cálcio, obturação endodôntica e extrusão ortodôntica. Após aproximadamente 16 semanas, o processo de extrusão foi finalizado e o dente restaurado com pino e coroa protética. Após acompanhamento de 3 anos, não havia evidência de lesão perirradicular e o dente estava estética e funcionalmente satisfatório.

Endo-perio lesions: Diagnosis and clinical considerations.

The interrelationship between periodontal and endodontic disease has aroused confusion, queries and controversy. Differentiating between periodontal and endodontic problems can be difficult. A symptomatic tooth may have pain of periodontal and/or pulpal origin. The nature of that pain is often the first clue in determining the etiology of such a problem. Radiographic and clinical evaluation can help clarify the nature of the problem. In some cases, the influence of pulpal pathology may create periodontal involvement. In others, periodontal pathology may create pulpal pathology. This review article discusses the various clinical aspects to be considered for accurately diagnosing and treating endo-perio lesions.

Histopathological evaluation of root canal filling materials for primary teeth

This study aimed to assess the response of apical and periapical tissues of dogs' teeth after root canal filling with different materials. Forty roots from dogs' premolars were prepared biomechanically and assigned to 4 groups filled with: Group I: commercial calcium hydroxide and polyethylene glycol-based paste (Calen®) thickened with zinc oxide; Group II: paste composed of iodoform, Rifocort® and camphorated paramonochlorophenol; Group III: zinc oxide-eugenol cement; Group IV: sterile saline. After 30 days, the samples were subjected to histological processing. The histopathological findings revealed that in Groups I and IV the apical and periapical regions exhibited normal appearance, with large number of fibers and cells and no resorption of mineralized tissues. In Group II, mild inflammatory infiltrate and mild edema were observed, with discrete fibrogenesis and bone resorption. Group III showed altered periapical region and thickened periodontal ligament with presence of inflammatory cells and edema. It may be concluded that the Calen paste thickened with zinc oxide yielded the best tissue response, being the most indicated material for root canal filling of primary teeth with pulp vitality.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a resposta dos tecidos apicais e periapicais de dentes de cães, após obturação dos canais radiculares com diferentes materiais indicados para dentes decíduos. Foram utilizados pré-molares de cães, totalizando 40 raízes que, após pulpectomia e preparo biomecânico, foram divididas em 4 grupos, nos quais os canais radiculares foram obturados com os seguintes materiais: Grupo I - pasta comercial composta de hidróxido de cálcio e polietileno glicol 400 (Calen®) espessada com óxido de zinco; Grupo II - pasta composta de iodofórmio, Rifocort® e paramonoclorofenol canforado; Grupo III - cimento de óxido de zinco e eugenol; e Grupo IV - solução salina. Decorridos 30 dias, as peças foram submetidas ao processamento histológico. De acordo com os resultados da análise histopatológica observou-se que nos Grupos I e IV as regiões apical e periapical apresentaram aspecto de normalidade, com grande número de fibras e células e ausência de reabsorção dos tecidos mineralizados. No Grupo II observou-se infiltrado inflamatório e edema leves, com discreta fibrogênese e reabsorção óssea. O Grupo III apresentou alteração na região periapical e ligamento periodontal ampliado, com presença de células inflamatórias e edema. Os resultados obtidos permitiram concluir que a pasta Calen espessada com óxido de zinco apresentou a melhor resposta tecidual, sendo a mais indicada para a obturação de canais radiculares de dentes decíduos com vitalidade pulpar.

Assessment of canal walls after biomechanical preparation of root canals instrumented with protaper universalTM rotary system

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to examine the instrumented walls of root canals prepared with the ProTaper UniversalTM rotary system. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Twenty mesiobuccal canals of human first mandibular molars were divided into 2 groups of 10 specimens each and embedded in a muffle system. The root canals were transversely sectioned 3 mm short of the apex before preparation and remounted in their molds. All root canals were prepared with ProTaper UniversalTM rotary system or with NitiflexTM files. The pre and postoperative images of the apical thirds viewed with a stereoscopic magnifier (X45) were captured digitally for further analysis. Data were analyzed statistically by Fisher's exact test and Chi-square test at 5 percent significance level. RESULTS: The differences observed between the instrumented and the noninstrumented walls were not statistically significant (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The NitiflexTM files and the ProTaper UniversalTM rotary system failed to instrument all the root canal walls.

CO2, Er: YAG and Nd: YAG lasers in endodontic surgery

OBJECTIVES: CO2, Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers have been used in endodontic surgery. This in vitro study evaluated 1 percent Rhodamine B dye penetration using computer-assisted morphometry (ImageTool Software®) of 108 endodontically treated human permanent canines. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Teeth were divided into 9 groups according to the technique used: A: 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, root-end cavity preparation with ultrasound and filled with MTA; B: 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, root-end cavity prepared with ultrasound and filled with MTA, and treatment of apical surface with CO2 laser (1 W, CW/CW); C: 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, and treatment of apical surface with Nd:YAG laser (150 mJ, 10 Hz); D: 90-degree apicoectomy with bur, and treatment of apical surface with CO2 laser,(1 W, CW/CW); E: apicoectomy with Er:YAG laser (400 mJ, 10 Hz), root-end cavity prepared with ultrasound and filled with MTA; F: apicoectomy with Er:YAG laser (400 mJ, 10 Hz) and treatment of apical surface with Nd:YAG laser (150 mJ, 10Hz); G: apicoectomy with CO2 laser (5W, CW/SP), root-end cavity prepared with ultrasound and filled with MTA; H: irradiation of apical end with CO2 laser (1 W, CW/CW); I: irradiation of apical end with Nd:YAG laser (150 mJ, 10 Hz). RESULTS: Dye penetration was found in all specimens at different rates, the lowest penetration occurring in groups C (16.20 percent), B (17.24 percent) and F (17.84 percent). CONCLUSIONS: Groups B, C and F represent the best technical sequences to perform endodontic surgery.