Histological response to titanium endodontic endosseous implants in dogs.

Endodontic endosseous implants stabilize teeth that have crown-root ratios compromised by periodontal disease, trauma, or apical resorption. By increasing the crown-root ratio, the implant improves the prognosis of the tooth, thus increasing its longevity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate, in vivo, the healing response to a newly introduced titanium endodontic implant. Eight implants were placed in the maxillary incisors and mandibular premolars of two adult beagle dogs after completion of root canal and osseous preparation. Peri-implant tissues were examined radiographically and histologically at 6 months postinsertion. Radiographically, the periapical area and tissue surrounding the implants seemed normal. Histologically, fibrous connective tissue and healthy bone intimately surrounded the implant. Epithelium or chronic inflammatory cells were not observed along the length of the implant. These findings suggest that titanium is a biocompatible metal when used as an endodontic endosseous implant.

Cast prosthesis removal using ultrasonics and a thermoplastic resin adhesive.

Nonsurgical endodontic procedures are routinely performed on teeth with existing cast restorations. The internal anatomy of the tooth and location of the root canals may be obscured by a crown or fixed partial denture. Tooth morphology and canal location may, therefore, be better visualized without the cast restoration in place. This article describes a conservative technique to remove an existing cast restoration to facilitate nonsurgical root canal treatment.