DentaltownUK Winter 2017 - 36

Case 4

ven complex root canal anatomy can be effectively
treated with a conservative root shapes, as this case
demonstrates. Tooth #29 presented with a necrotic
pulp and symptomatic apical periodontitis. Note how the
finished endodontic shape lacks a continuously tapering
funnel shape. With this conservative shape, it was still
possible to instrument, irrigate and obturate the complex
apical anatomy. The PA radiograph and CBCT at the
one-year recall show excellent healing. Also note how #31

was extracted as a result of a vertical root fracture in the
mesial root.
The side-by-side images show that we're fighting for only
fractions of a millimeter of dentin, but this is a relatively
large proportion of the root's structure. The goal is to
complete our endodontic objectives with less impact on the
root's strength. By preserving this strategic tooth structure,
leaving stronger roots, we have a better chance of retaining
functional endodontically treated teeth for a lifetime.

References
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Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of DentaltownUK Winter 2017