RESUMO
Successful management of mandibular incisors with pulp canal obliteration using guided endodontics is described, for the first time in Iran. A 58-year-old man was referred for root canal treatment of teeth #24, #25 and #26. Upon radiographic examination, partial obliteration of the root canal system was detected. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was requested to enhance the diagnosis and detection of root canals. Next, a 3-dimensional (3D) guide was designed and printed to aid in localization and access to the root canal system with minimal destruction of the tooth structure. With the use of a targeted 3D guide, a conservative access cavity was prepared to avoid unnecessary removal of tooth structure. The teeth were successfully treated endodontically. Obtained results revealed that the technique can be effective and predictable for the management of calcified canals.
RESUMO
Our article aimed to present a curious case of a mandibular premolar with a C-shaped root canal and to review the available literature on this anatomical variation. Mandibular premolar teeth account for the greatest endodontic challenges in the course of treatment on account of the morphological variations in their root canal systems, including extra root(s)/canal(s) or a C-shaped configuration. A 20-year-old female patient was referred to the Department of Endodontics of Mashhad Faculty of Dentistry, suffering from abscess, and pain while chewing. On examination the culprit was found to be the left mandibular first premolar. Following special tests and periapical radiography, we found an amalgam restoration proximate to the non-vital pulp chamber, as well as an unusually complex root canal anatomy with periapical radiolucency. A non-surgical root canal treatment with the aid of a dental operating microscope was considered as the treatment plan. Clinicians should always anticipate the presence of a C-shaped configuration in mandibular premolars, and make use of all the available tools to locate and treat such cases. A substantial knowledge of root canal anatomy would be prudent to ensure a successful outcome ensuing surgical and non-surgical root canal treatments.
