From digital radiography units to office computer systems, there are several pieces of equipment that make up today's high-tech dental office. Recently, advances in dental imaging have allowed cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), which is a form of 3-dimensional radiography, to gain increasing popularity as another major office component. In consideration of the current economic conditions, cost has become a definite obstacle for many practitioners. With several brands available, this technology has nonetheless generated considerable attention for use in presurgical treatment planning and diagnosis. However, is there enough evidence for its use in endodontics? This article aims to bring to light the many exciting features of CBCT, including its operation, impact, and feasibility in endodontics.

The IR technique is a clinically successful procedure, so long as the following conditions, as outlined by Niemczyk, are met: 1) Avoid any crushing or scraping contact with the root surface or socket; 2) Root surface must be continually hydrated with tissue culture media (e.g., HBSS); 3) Tooth should be splinted, if indicated; and 4) Soft diet and hygiene instructions must be implemented and reinforced. The IR technique should not be considered a procedure of last resort. Rather, it should be used in situations where conventional apical surgery is difficult or places the patient at risk. The IR technique expands potential treatment alternatives and allows the patient to successfully retain his or her own tooth following treatment.