PubMed HealthSearch

PubMed · 8935000

Problem solving in endodontic working-length determination.

Abstract

The success of nonsurgical endodontic treatment is influenced significantly by accurate working-length determination. A variety of guidelines and techniques are available to clinicians in mastering working-length analysis with routine success achieved when multiple methods are used. This article stresses a cognitive, problem-solving approach in the management of clinical variations in working-length determination and interpretation.

Explore related subjects

Keep this discovery

Explore connections, maps & timelines

BibTeXRIS

J L Gutmann, J E Leonard. 1995. Problem solving in endodontic working-length determination.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8935000/

Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.

KEEP EXPLORING

Related citations

A new muffle model system to study root canal morphology and instrumentation techniques.

A new muffle model system is presented using the principle of internal indexing. The system is composed of a metal stand, four pins, and a single Teflon mold that is used for the investment of all teeth. This system is very precise, reproducible, and versatile. The sectioned specimens can easily be stored assembled, as opposed to previous systems that rely on external indexing.

Dental Pulp Cavity

Efficacy of Er:YAG laser irradiation in removing debris and smear layer on root canal walls.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of Er:YAG laser irradiation in removing debris and smear layer from prepared root canal walls. Thirty-six human extracted mandibular incisors teeth were divided into three groups. Group 1 (G1) was control specimens that were not lased. The teeth of group 2 (G2) and group 3 (G3) were irradiated by Er:YAG laser at different watt powers of 1 W and 2 W. The teeth were bisected and prepared for study in stereoscopic light microscope and SEM. Control specimens showed an amount of debris and heavy smear layer obscuring the dentinal tubules at all levels in the canals. The root canal walls irradiated by Er:YAG laser were free of debris, with an evaporated smear layer and open dentinal tubules. Statistical analyses showed significant differences (p < 0.01) in cleanliness smear layer between G1 and G2, and G1 and G3. However, there was no statistically significant difference between G2 and G3 in the cleanliness of the middle and apical one-third of the root canals. These results show Er:YAG laser is effective in removing debris and smear layer from root canal walls.

Dental Pulp Cavity

An evaluation of canal morphology at different levels of root resection in mandibular incisors.

One hundred randomly selected mandibular incisors were examined to assess the prevalence and location of two canals and to describe the canal anatomy that may be encountered during apical surgery. Sections of the root were cut at 1, 2, and 3 mm from the apex, simulating a 20-degree beveled surgical resection. The sections were digitally imaged at x 50 magnification, and canal dimensions were measured using imaging software. The prevalence of two canals was 2% at 1 mm, 0% at 2 mm, and 1% at 3 mm. At these levels in the roots, the canal was rarely divided by hard tooth structure. An isthmus of tissue was present 20% of the time at 1 mm, 30% at 2 mm, and 55% at 3 mm. Four distinct canal types were noted: (i) round, (ii) oval, (iii) long oval, and (iv) ribbon. In 75% of the teeth, the canal shapes varied from one level to the next. The more coronally the root-end resection was made, the more elongated the canal tended to become.

Dental Pulp Cavity