Radix mesiolingualis and radix distolingualis: a case report of a tooth with an unusual morphology

Variation in the root and canal morphology of the maxillary first molars is quite common. The most common configuration is 3 roots and 3 or 4 canals. Nonetheless, other possibilities still exist. The presence of an additional palatal root is rather uncommon and has been reported to have an incidence of 0.06 - 1.6% in varying populations studied. Whenever two palatal roots exist, one of them is the normal palatal root, the other is a supernumerary structure which can be located either mesiolingually (radix mesiolingualis) or distolingually (radix distolingualis). This case report describes successful endodontic treatment of a maxillary first molar with radix mesiolingualis and radix distolingualis. Identification of this variation was done through clinical examination along with the aid of multiangled radiographs, and an accurate assessment of this morphology was made with the help of a cone-beam computed tomography imaging. In addition to the literature review, this article also discusses the epidemiology, classifications, morphometric features, guidelines for diagnosis, and endodontic management of a maxillary first molar with extra-palatal root.

Computer Aided Designing-Computer Aided Milling in Prosthodontics: A Promising Technology for Future.

Computer aided designing-computer aided milling (CAD-CAM) technology was introduced to dentistry way back in 1971. Over the years there has been a constant upgradation in the quality and popularity of its application to dentistry. CAD-CAM fabricated prosthesis though initially were considered costly and technique sensitive, nowadays they are being extensively used because of advancements in various CAD-CAM systems that have gained popularity. Th e ease of work and reduced chair side time makes them a boon while providing prosthodontics treatment. Dental CAD-CAM systems are being used not only for crowns and bridges, inlays and onlays but also for fabrication of removable prosthesis, stents, and implant components. Th is article reviews the evolution of the CAD-CAM system and its applications in the fi eld of dentistry over the past two and a half decades.

Interim palatal lift prosthesis as a constituent of multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of velopharyngeal incompetence

The velopharynx is a tridimensional muscular valve located between the oral and nasal cavities, consisting of the lateral and posterior pharyngeal walls and the soft palate, and controls the passage of air. Velopharyngeal insufficiency may take place when the velopharyngeal valve is unable to perform its own closing, due to a lack of tissue or lack of proper movement. Treatment options include surgical correction, prosthetic rehabilitation, and speech therapy; though optimal results often require a multidisciplinary approach for the restoration of both anatomical and physiological defect. We report a case of 56 year old male patient presenting with hypernasal speech pattern and velopharyngeal insufficiency secondary to cleft palate which had been surgically corrected 18 years ago. The patient was treated with a combination of speech therapy and palatal lift prosthesis employing interim prostheses in various phases before the insertion of definitive appliance. This phase-wise treatment plan helped to improve patient's compliance and final outcome.