The influence of dental operating microscope in locating the mesiolingual canal orifice.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of using the dental operating microscope (DOM) for detection of the mesiolingual (ML) canal orifice in extracted maxillary molars compared with unaided vision (no loupes or headlamps).


METHODS
Using a clinical simulation model system, we mounted 39 maxillary molars in a dentoform and placed them into a mannequin. After rubber dam placement and preparation of standard access, 2 attempts were made to locate the ML canal with unaided vision. Then the teeth were examined by using a DOM. Finally, all teeth were sectioned, stained, and evaluated with the DOM for actual presence of an ML canal.


RESULTS
ML canal orifices were detected in 20 of the teeth with a sharp explorer and mirror. In the remaining teeth, 12 ML canal orifice were located by using the DOM. Qualitative nonparametric comparisons were used.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study indicate that the DOM provides increased opportunity for the dentist to detect canal orifices.
Baldassari-Cruz
Lynne A
LA
Department of Endodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, 52242-1001, USA.lynne-baldassari-cruz@uiowa.edu
Lilly
Jeffrey P
JP
Rivera
Eric M
EM
D003748:Dental Equipment; D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D006801:Humans; D008348:Manikins; D008437:Maxilla; D008853:Microscopy / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008963:Molar / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000033:anatomy & histology*