Tooth autotransplantation (TA) is indicated in cases of structurally compromised teeth with poor prognosis when a donor tooth is available. This case report describes the TA of a mandibular right third molar (48) into the position of the mandibular right second molar (47) in a 32-year-old male patient. Clinically, extensive coronal destruction and a sinus tract were observed in tooth 47, rendering retreatment unfavorable. The tooth was diagnosed as previously treated, with a chronic apical abscess. Therefore, tooth 48 was autotransplanted into the 47 position. Four months later, apical external inflammatory root resorption was observed. However, root canal treatment was performed one year after TA because the patient did not adhere to follow-up recommendations. After two years, the tooth remained asymptomatic, with no signs of periapical lesions or periodontal changes. In conclusion, TA may serve as a viable strategy for replacing structurally compromised permanent molars, thereby preserving the function of the natural dentition.
Introduction:The close relationship between pulp stones in the pulp chamber and pulp neurovascular tissues suggests that the presence of pulp stones may compromise successful anesthesia. The present study assessed the effect of pulp stone presence on the failure of anesthesia in mandibular and maxillary molars. Materials & Methods:In this retrospective cohort study, 126 patients were studied. Pulp stones were diagnosed by periapical radiography. After the anesthetic agent injection, failure was defined as patients raising their hand upon experiencing pain during any procedural step of endodontic treatment. Furthermore, sound, eye, and motor (SEM) measures were used to assess the pain experience. In the case of either pain felt or the patients' demand, supplementary injections were made using the intraligamental technique. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to assess the effects of different variables on the success of anesthesia. Results:The overall prevalence of pulp stones in the patients was 59.5%, with 42.9% and 57.1% for males and females, respectively. The incidence of pulp stones in patients under the age of 40 was 54.7%, whereas in the ≥40 age group, it was 64.5%. The highest incidences of pulp stones were reported for maxillary second (42.9%) and first (21.4%) molars, followed by mandibular second (18.6%) and first molars (17.1%). Overall, the success rate of anesthesia was 55.6% for treated teeth. However, no significant differences were observed in the success rate of anesthesia regarding gender, tooth type, and pulp stone presence. Only the age group of patients significantly predicted the success of anesthesia (Odds ratio: 1.135; CI 95%: 1.43-6.76; P=0.004). Conclusion:Pulp stones had no significant effect on the success of anesthesia in mandibular and maxillary molars.
This case report presents the endodontic management of a hypertaurodontic mandibular second premolar with five root canals, a rare and complex anatomical variation. A 12-year-old male patient presented with a previously treated tooth (history of pulpotomy) with symptomatic apical periodontitis and necrotic pulp. Initial periapical radiographs suggested taurodontism, but conebeam computed tomography (CBCT) revealed the presence of five canals merging into four distinct apices. Under CBCT guidance, all canals were negotiated, cleaned, and shaped. An apical barrier was created with bioceramic material, followed by obturation using warm vertical condensation with resinbased sealer. At the sixmonth followup, the tooth was asymptomatic and radiographically satisfactory. This case highlights the diagnostic indispensability of CBCT in detecting intricate root canal configurations in taurodontic teeth and outlines a structured clinical protocol for managing such challenging anatomies.
Maxillary central incisors typically exhibit a single root and canal. The presence of two roots with separate canals, as defined by Vertucci's type V morphology, is extremely rare and presents diagnostic and technical challenges for nonsurgical endodontic treatment. This report describes the endodontic management of a maxillary right central incisor (tooth #11) exhibiting a sinus tract, negative responses to pulp sensibility tests, and radiographic evidence of apical periodontitis in a 24-year-old female patient. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) revealed a two-rooted anatomy with independent canals splitting at the middle third. Under magnification, access was refined using ultrasonic tips. The palatal root canal was prepared with NiTi CM rotary files, while the wider buccal canal was instrumented with stainless steel K-files. Both canals were disinfected using passive ultrasonic irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and 17% EDTA, followed by intracanal calcium hydroxide medication. Obturation was completed using the single-cone technique with a bioceramic sealer. Radiographic follow-up at 14 and 57 months confirmed complete periapical healing and absence of symptoms, demonstrating long-term clinical success. Atypical root canal anatomy in maxillary incisors necessitates advanced imaging/magnification. The use of CBCT, NiTi CM files, and bioceramic sealers enabled accurate diagnosis, conservative canal shaping, and a successful long-term outcome in this rare morphology case.
Introduction:This study aimed to evaluate the bond strength of a bioceramic endodontic sealer and AH-Plus sealer irrigated with 2% chlorhexidine (CHX), compared to irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) as a control group. Materials and Methods:Thirty freshly extracted single-rooted human teeth were prepared using reciprocating R25 and R40 files. Irrigation consisted of 2.5% NaOCl in the control group and 2% CHX gel in the experimental group, with additional irrigation using saline solution after each instrument change. Samples were divided into four groups: two with CHX, one with bioceramic sealer, and the other with AH-Plus sealer, and two with hypochlorite, one with bioceramic sealer and the other with AH-Plus sealer. The teeth were sectioned, and the resulting slices were subjected to the push-out test using a mechanical testing machine for measuring the microtensile force. After testing, samples were examined to determine the failure pattern. Data normality was assessed (Shapiro-Wilk, P<0.05), and non-parametric analyses (Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn's post hoc, Wilcoxon rank-sum with Benjamini-Hochberg correction) were applied. Effect sizes (Cohen's d, Cliff's Delta), bootstrap 95% confidence intervals (CIs) (2000 replicates), and the post hoc power were calculated. Significance was set at P<0.05. Results:AH-Plus exhibited higher bond strength than Sealer Plus BC across all root thirds, independent of irrigant. For Sealer Plus BC, bond strength was influenced by irrigant, with NaOCl producing higher values than CHX (P<0.05). Conclusion:AH-Plus exhibited superior bond strength irrespective of the irrigant used. In contrast, the bond strength of the Sealer Plus bioceramic sealer was influenced by the irrigant, with NaOCl yielding higher values than CHX.
Introduction:Achieving a three-dimensional seal in the apical, lateral, and coronal regions of the root canal is a key objective in endodontic treatment. This study aimed to compare the apical sealing ability of NeoSealer Flo, MTA-Fillapex, and AH-26 over different time intervals using the fluid filtration method. Materials and Methods:In this in vitro study, 58 single-rooted premolars (n=18 per group; 2 positive and 2 negative controls) were selected and prepared using the ProTaper system up to file F3. Canals were obturated with the single-cone technique using one of the three tested sealers. Apical microleakage was measured at 24 hours, 1 week, and 4 weeks using the fluid filtration method. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, repeated measures ANOVA, ANCOVA, and Tukey's HSD post hoc test (P<0.05). Results:The results indicated that sealer type, time, and their interaction had a statistically significant effect on apical microleakage (P<0.001). NeoSealer Flo showed the lowest and AH-26 the highest leakage values across all time intervals. In all three groups, microleakage decreased over time. This reduction was statistically significant from 24 hours to 1 week in the NeoSealer Flo and MTA-Fillapex groups (P<0.001), and from 1 week to 4 weeks in the AH-26 group (P<0.05). Conclusion:Within the limitations of this study, NeoSealer Flo demonstrated superior apical sealing ability at all time points. Under single-cone obturation conditions, bioceramic sealers such as NeoSealer Flo may provide more predictable long-term apical sealing compared to resin-based alternatives.
Tooth avulsion represents a severe dental injury, and prognosis depends on extraoral time and storage. Its major complications include ankylosis and external inflammatory root resorption. We report a 14-year-old female who presented with pain in her upper incisors one year after avulsion of teeth 11 and 21, replanted after 60 minutes in dry cloth and splinted for four months without follow-up. Clinical and radiographic examinations were consistent with severe external inflammatory root resorption in the teeth #11, 12, 21, and 22. Given her age and unsuitability for implants, staged endodontic therapy was performed over four months. Canals were prepared under rubber dam isolation, irrigated with 17% EDTA and 5.25% sodium hypochlorite with ultrasonic activation, and dressed with non-setting calcium hydroxide. Dressing was refreshed at sequential visits until resorption stabilized. Final obturation used calcium-enriched mixture (CEM) cement at perforations and gutta-percha in remaining canal spaces, and AH-26 sealer was used as sealant. Our treatment arrested resorption and preserved function, though the long-term risk of ankylosis remains high. This case report underscores the need for immediate replantation, physiologic storage media, and timely endodontic intervention to mitigate complications. Close monitoring remains vital for maintaining aesthetics and function in growing patients.
Magnesium phosphate cements (MPCs) have recently gained attention as potential materials for endodontic applications due to their rapid setting, favourable mechanical properties, and bioactive potential. Laboratory and preclinical studies indicate that MPCs can form apatite-like structures, exhibit good compressive strength, and support cell viability, suggesting promising biological interactions. However, several limitations remain unresolved. The acid-base setting reaction of MPCs is strongly exothermic, which may pose a risk to pulp or periapical tissues, and ammonium-containing formulations can release cytotoxic ammonia, although partial mitigation is possible through sodium phosphate substitution. Rapid setting enhances handling in controlled conditions but may complicate placement in complex root canal anatomies. While in vitro studies suggest comparable or superior sealing ability relative to conventional calcium silicate cements, human clinical evidence is minimal or absent. Degradation and resorption profiles of MPCs may further affect their suitability as scaffolds in regenerative endodontics. Overall, MPCs represent promising investigational materials, yet claims regarding clinical readiness are premature. Careful evaluation of their physicochemical behaviour, biological safety, and practical handling is essential before consideration for routine clinical use.
Introduction:The dental pulp is a specialized connective tissue responsible for maintaining tooth vitality through a complex interplay of cellular, vascular, and immunological components. Despite the clinical use of conventional capping materials, their limited regenerative potential often results in pulp devitalization and compromised structural integrity. Recent advances in tissue engineering, particularly the application of three-dimensional scaffolds, have demonstrated promising outcomes in promoting dentin-pulp complex regeneration and biomimetic tissue repair. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of three-dimensional matrices, with or without bioactive materials, as direct pulp capping agents in animal models. Outcomes included cellularity, dentin thickness, dentin bridge formation, dystrophic calcification, inflammation control, and pulp organization compared to commercial materials. Materials and Methods:A comprehensive search was conducted in indexed databases and gray literature. A random-effects meta-analysis used standardized mean differences and the inverse variance method. Heterogeneity (I²), publication bias (Egger's and Begg's tests), and risk of bias (SYRCLE's RoB tool) were assessed. Statistical analyses were conducted using RevMan (P<0.05). Results:Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, with 13 included in the meta-analysis. The risk of bias was predominantly low, yet the certainty of evidence was very low. Scaffolds significantly enhanced cellularity (P=0.02; I²=91%), dentin thickness (P<0.00001; I²=87%), and inflammation control (P=0.03; I²=20%) compared to controls. No significant differences were observed for dentin bridge formation (P=0.30; I²=63%), dystrophic calcification (P=0.14; I²=32%), or pulp organization (P=0.10; I²=0%). Conclusion:Three-dimensional scaffolds demonstrated potential in promoting cellular activity, dentin formation, and inflammation control. However, their impact on dentin bridge formation, pulp organization, and dystrophic calcification remains inconclusive. Further high-quality studies are required to validate their clinical applicability.
This case report describes the successful guided endodontic treatment of a maxillary left canine (#23) with pulp canal obliteration (PCO) in a 30-year-old female patient. The patient had a history of orthodontic treatment and Le Fort I orthognathic surgery, both recognized as potential factors contributing to canal calcification. The patient had a history of a failed root canal treatment, contributing to incomplete canal instrumentation and iatrogenic damage (gouging) during access cavity preparation. The case was referred for completion of treatment. Upon referral, clinical and radiographic examinations revealed advanced canal obliteration, procedural gouging from the prior attempt, and a radiolucent line suggestive of a horizontal root fracture. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) confirmed the extent of canal calcification, ruled out the suspected fracture, and showed a localized palatal external root resorption, likely related to previous orthodontic forces. Given the complexity of the case, a static-guided endodontic technique was selected as the preferred treatment approach. A custom 3D-printed guide, generated from merged CBCT and intraoral scan data, enabled conservative and accurate access to the calcified canal. Although a hand K-file fractured during canal negotiation, the fragment was successfully retrieved using ultrasonic devices under magnification. The tooth was treated successfully. Clinical and radiographic follow-ups at six and twelve months confirmed resolution of the periapical lesion and complete symptom relief, demonstrating that guided endodontics can serve as a safe and effective treatment option in teeth with PCO.
Introduction:Tooth discoloration remains a significant concern in endodontic treatment, particularly with the use of intracanal medicaments. This study investigated the discoloration potential of niosomal doxycycline and triamcinolone, a novel nanotechnology-based drug delivery system, in comparison to conventional medications. Materials and Methods:Fifty extracted single-rooted human teeth were assigned to five groups: (1) calcium hydroxide, (2) calcium hydroxide+triamcinolone, (3) niosomal doxycycline+triamcinolone, (4) doxycycline+triamcinolone, and control groups (positive: blood; negative: saline). All samples were prepared using standardized endodontic procedures, filled with medicaments, and incubated for one month. Discoloration values (∆E) were measured at baseline, 1 week, and 1 month using the CIE Lab system and a spectrophotometer. A ∆E>3.3 was considered clinically unacceptable. Results:All groups exhibited discoloration values within clinically acceptable limits (∆E<3.3). At one month, significant differences were observed among groups (ANOVA, P<0.05). The niosomal doxycycline+triamcinolone group showed the lowest ∆E values, similar to the calcium hydroxide group, while the doxycycline+triamcinolone and calcium hydroxide+triamcinolone groups exhibited higher discoloration values. Conclusion:Emphasize that at 4 weeks, all medicaments induced clinically acceptable ∆E, with niosomal performing similarly to calcium hydroxide alone and significantly better than the conventional doxycycline+triamcinolone combination.
The present study aims to provide readers with the influence of various types of dental lasers in endodontics, along with their advantages and disadvantages. A complete query was carried out on PubMed, Google Scholar, Embase, and Scopus databases, and the studies published during 2015-2024 were collected using the keywords "Laser," "Endodontics," "Disinfection," "Vital Pulp therapy," and "Regenerative Endodontic Treatment." After applying appropriate inclusion and exclusion criteria, 86 relevant articles focused on the application of dental lasers in endodontics were selected and evaluated. Based on the evaluated studies, probably the most significant advancement of dental lasers is in optimizing the treatment outcome of root canal therapy via enhanced disinfection of root canals. Moreover, various research has shown that dental lasers can also aid in diagnosing vitality of pulp, vital pulp therapy, apiectomy, regenerative treatments, pain management treatment after root canal therapy, access cavity preparation, sterilization and irrigation of root canals, treatment of periapical lesions, removing excess materials and broken instruments in canals, and prompting the healing process after root canal therapy. As evidenced by the obtained results, diode and erbium lasers have the most applications in endodontics with the lowest side effects. Nonetheless, all dental lasers face multiple limitations, including producing noticeable thermal changes and smoke and damaging surrounding structures at the emission site, which question their safe usage in clinical practice. Therefore, dental lasers' newest advancements in dental procedures require further scientific work in the future.
This case report describes the successful nonsurgical endodontic management of a mandibular second molar with a confirmed C-shaped canal configuration complicated by chronic apical periodontitis and active external inflammatory root resorption in a 16-year-old female patient. The patient presented with pain on biting, deep localized periodontal probing, and radiographic evidence of a large periapical radiolucency and resorptive changes in the distal root. Diagnostic tests confirmed pulpal necrosis and an endodontic-periodontal communication. Following access under magnification, the complex C-shaped canal system was negotiated and disinfected using 5.25% sodium hypochlorite, activated irrigation, and calcium hydroxide dressing. Because of apical resorption and an open apex, a 4-5 mm mineral trioxide aggregate apical plug was placed, followed by warm vertical obturation of the remaining canal system. The tooth was restored and monitored clinically/radiographically. At the 8-month follow-up, the patient was asymptomatic, probing depths had normalized, and radiographs demonstrated complete resolution of the periapical lesion with arrest of external root resorption. This case highlights that conservative endodontic therapy, supported by modern materials and careful disinfection, can achieve predictable healing even in teeth with complex morphology and resorptive defects. Early diagnosis and meticulous management are essential for a favorable outcome.
Internal root resorption (IRR) is an uncommon but clinically significant condition traditionally managed with complete pulpectomy and root canal therapy. Advances in vital pulp therapy and bioactive calcium silicate-based cements have enabled conservative strategies aimed at preserving residual pulp vitality. A 33-year-old woman presented with an asymptomatic, unperforated IRR in the maxillary left lateral incisor, confirmed by periapical radiography and cone-beam computed tomography. The tooth responded positively to sensibility testing and showed healthy periapical tissues. A partial pulpectomy was performed: diseased coronal and mid-root pulp was removed, while approximately 5 mm of vital apical pulp was preserved. The resorptive cavity and root canal were bio-obturated with calcium-enriched mixture cement, which also served as a capping biomaterial for the apical pulp stump. Postoperative imaging confirmed complete filling/sealing of the resorptive defect and root canal while maintaining the apical pulp segment. At 2-year follow-up, the tooth remained functional, symptom-free, and radiographically stable, with intact lamina dura and no evidence of progressive resorption. This case demonstrates that partial pulpectomy combined with bio-obturation using an endodontic biomaterial may successfully arrest IRR and preserve apical pulp vitality in carefully selected cases. While the outcome supports the biological feasibility of this approach, further studies with larger samples and longer follow-up are required before it can be considered a routine alternative to conventional treatment.
This case report presents the innovative application of ultrasonic points combined with a graphite-marked endodontic guide in a case of restricted vertical space. A 71-year-old female patient with root canal obliteration in the second left mandibular molar was referred for treatment. The patient was experiencing spontaneous pain. Using data from cone-beam computed tomography and surface scans, a virtual 3D guide was developed and positioned. As the patient presented limited interocclusal space, black graphite was inserted through the drill path to mark the pathway. The guide was withdrawn, shorter ultrasonic points were inserted 2 mm into the marked dentin, and this process was repeated until the root canals were localized. The root canals were subsequently shaped and filled. The guide drill path effectively served as a reference for ultrasonic points, enabling successful localization of the root canals. Graphite-marked guide path facilitated access to obliterated root canals in the presence of limited interocclusal space.
Introduction:The present study aimed to evaluate the instrumentation time and transportation ability of three file sequences sharing the same physical properties (diameter, tip design, cross-sectional shape, and taper), each manufactured entirely of one single alloy type (Pink, Blue, or Gold). Materials and Methods:One hundred and eighty simulated curved resin canals were instrumented using the BlueShaper system, with full Z1-Z4 sequences, each made entirely of a single alloy type (Pink, Blue, or Gold). Images before and after instrumentation of each specimen were overlaid with Photoshop software to evaluate centering ability in the coronal, middle, and apical thirds. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with post hoc multiple comparisons or the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test for intergroup analysis. Results:No significant differences were found between the different alloys in the centering ability of the simulated canals in the coronal third (P>0.05). The Blue alloy of the BlueShaper system showed significantly less transport ability in the middle third than Pink and Gold alloys (P<0.05). A significantly lower centering ability (P<0.001) was observed in the apical third between the Blue and Pink alloys than the Gold alloy. Conclusions:It was concluded that the Blue alloy performed better than the Pink and Gold alloys in the middle and apical thirds. The pink alloy performed better than the Gold alloy in the apical third.
Inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury is a rare but serious complication of root canal treatment (RCT), typically caused by mechanical over-instrumentation, chemical irritation from extruded sealers, or thermal damage. We report the case of a 42-year-old woman who developed persistent burning pain, numbness, and dysesthesia of the right lower lip and gingiva after RCT of the right mandibular second molar. Initial management by a general dentist involved retreatment and calcium hydroxide medicament; however, early CBCT was misinterpreted, and referral was delayed. High-quality CBCT and clinical testing later revealed obturation material within the IAN canal and a horizontal fracture of the distal root. Endodontic retreatment, followed by maxillofacial microsurgery for removal of extruded gutta-percha/sealer, combined with neuroprotective therapy (dexamethasone, vitamin B, and adjunctive low-level laser therapy). The patient achieved complete resolution of pain and sensory disturbances within one month, and remained asymptomatic with radiographic periapical healing at 12-month follow-up. Comprehensive preoperative imaging, cautious canal instrumentation, independent CBCT interpretation by the endodontist, and timely specialist referral are essential to minimize the risk of IAN injury. Even with delayed intervention, targeted microsurgical removal of extruded material can result in favorable neurological recovery.
The management of extensive periapical lesions poses a significant challenge in endodontic therapy due to their potential cystic nature, anatomical proximity to critical structures, risk of cortical perforation, and complex infection dynamics. This report presents a successful case of a large through-and-through periapical lesion managed conservatively via decompression. Initial periapical radiographs revealed poor-quality root canal therapy and a large radiolucent lesion associated with a maxillary lateral incisor. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging confirmed a through-and-through lesion approximately 12×9.5×10.5 mm in size. Based on the clinical and radiographic features, pulpal diagnosis was previous endodontic treatment with an infected root canal system and the periapical diagnosis was a radicular cyst; however, a definitive diagnosis would have required a serial sectioning biopsy, which was not feasible under the present circumstances. Initial non-surgical retreatment as the first treatment choice, with multiple intracanal medicament replacements, proved ineffective due to persistent discharge of the canal. Furthermore, surgical intervention was deemed high-risk due to the lesion's proximity to the incisive foramen, palatal mucosa, sinus floor, and nasal cavity. Decompression, a minimally invasive technique with low morbidity, was selected. Following drainage, a drain was inserted via the thinnest cortical plate, and daily irrigation was initiated. The lesion was monitored every two weeks, with progressive reduction in size documented radiographically. After 5 months, the root canal was obturated and the tooth was restored by composite resin due to the cessation of drainage. The drain was removed at 6 months, and by the 9-month follow-up, significant bone regeneration was evident radiographically. The tooth was asymptomatic, exhibited no mobility or sensitivity to percussion or palpation, and periodontal probing revealed no pathologic pockets.
A thorough understanding of root canal morphology is critical for achieving predictable outcomes in endodontic therapy. Anatomical variations in mandibular second premolars are uncommon compared to other teeth, and the coexistence of a C-shaped root canal configuration with four independent canals and four separate apical foramina is exceptionally rare. This case report describes the nonsurgical endodontic management of a mandibular second premolar exhibiting this unique morphology, confirmed through cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and magnification. A 52-year-old male was referred by a prosthodontist for elective root canal treatment before post placement. CBCT imaging revealed a C-shaped root in the coronal third that bifurcated into four separate canals at the midroot level, each terminating in an independent apical foramen. Nonsurgical treatment was performed over two visits, using meticulous chemo-mechanical preparation, intracanal calcium hydroxide dressing, and warm vertical compaction obturation. At the 9-month follow-up, the tooth was functional, asymptomatic, and radiographically stable. This case underscores the importance of preoperative assessment with advanced imaging and magnification in identifying and successfully treating rare endodontic anatomies.
