A combined radiographic and computerized scanning method to evaluate remaining dentine thickness in mandibular incisors after various intracanal procedures.
OBJECTIVE
To develop a computerized model to evaluate remaining dentine thickness after various intracanal procedures.


METHODS
A three-step model was developed, in which injection of radiopaque solution into the root-canal space of 20 extracted mandibular incisors, exposure of periapical radiographs from two directions, and computerized scanning and printing of the image were combined. Following root-canal preparation and preparation of post space, evaluation of remaining dentine thickness was completed using appropriate software.


RESULTS
Remaining dentine thickness was significantly affected (P < 0.01) by place (mesial-distal more than buccal-lingual), stage (root-canal preparation more than post space) and location (coronal more than middle and apical).


CONCLUSIONS
This in vitro study confirmed that in an oval root-canal space, the mesial and distal aspects are mainly affected by intraradicular procedures. The three-step method is a useful tool to evaluate root-canal instrumentation as the root or tooth can remain intact during the procedure.
D003287:Contrast Media; D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D003804:Dentin / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D007180:Incisor / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D008334:Mandible; D011176:Post and Core Technique; D011670:Pulpectomy; D011859:Radiography; D018915:Root Canal Preparation / Q000379:methods*
D003287:Contrast Media