The use of the operating microscope in endodontics.

In the last 15 years, there has been an explosion of new technologies, instruments, and materials for nonsurgical and surgical endodontics. These developments have improved the precision with which endodontics is performed. The most important revolution has been the introduction and widespread adoption of the operating microscope (OM). Its introduction into dentistry, particularly in endodontics, has revolutionized how endodontics is practiced worldwide. This article provides basic information on how an OM is used in clinical endodontic practice and also gives an overview of its clinical and surgical applications.

Ultrastructural examination of failed molar retreatment with secondary apical periodontitis: an examination of endodontic biofilms in an endodontic retreatment failure.

A light and electron microscope examination of the resected root tip of a failing endodontically re-treated lower molar was examined. The tooth had been initially treated 10 years ago and then re-treated 2 years ago. The resected root tip was sectioned axially, and thin sections were examined through the entire length of the specimen. Thin sections were examined with a transmission electron microscope. The thin sections were randomly chosen along the isthmus areas between the mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals. Our findings suggest that a complex, variable, multispecies biofilm was present the entire length of the specimen.

Tissue reactions after intraosseous implantation of three retrofilling materials.

Bone tissue reactions to EBA, IRM, and cyanoacrylate cement (Base Liner) were studied in the rat mandible using an intraosseous implant method. Osseous cavities (1.4 mm in diameter) were surgically created in the mandibles, and materials were implanted in 60 male Wistar rats. Each specimen was evaluated histologically after 4 and 8 weeks. The development of fibrous connective tissue in direct apposition to the material was observed in the EBA and IRM groups at 4 weeks. A slight degree of macrophage infiltration was seen in the EBA group. After the 8-week observation period, IRM and EBA were frequently separated from the bone cavity by a fibrous connective tissue layer (p < 0.01). The Base Liner appeared to be in direct apposition to the osseous tissue in several areas (p < 0.01). These findings indicate that Base Liner reacts favorably with osseous tissue, compared with the EBA and IRM materials tested and seems to be a biocompatible material.

Microscopic photography for the restorative dentist.

UNLABELLED: Obtaining quality 35 mm photographs through an operating microscope challenges even the best of operators, and few clinicians have actually mastered the technique. This article discusses how to easily obtain quality high-resolution digital photographs at various magnifications using an operating microscope by adopting a technique that is easy to master and can be accomplished by any clinician who learns the skills. This review summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of microscopic photography, with a particular emphasis on digital photography. There is a discussion of the required equipment and necessary technique. The value of using digital photographic libraries at chair-side is explored. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Since the photographic skill with digital photography is easily mastered, clinicians can now more thoroughly document their cases and enhance their case-presentation skills. Teachers and lecturers can also draw upon large photographic relational databases to expand their presentation capabilities.