title: 3D Computer aided treatment planning in endodontics.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Obliteration of the root canal system due to accelerated dentinogenesis and dystrophic calcification can challenge the achievement of root canal treatment goals. This paper describes the application of 3D digital mapping technology for predictable navigation of obliterated canal systems during root canal treatment to avoid iatrogenic damage of the root.
  
  
  METHODS
  Digital endodontic treatment planning for anterior teeth with severely obliterated root canal systems was accomplished with the aid of computer software, based on cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) scans and intra-oral scans of the dentition. On the basis of these scans, endodontic guides were created for the planned treatment through digital designing and rapid prototyping fabrication.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The custom-made guides allowed for an uncomplicated and predictable canal location and management.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The method of digital designing and rapid prototyping of endodontic guides allows for reliable and predictable location of root canals of teeth with calcifically metamorphosed root canal systems.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The endodontic directional guide facilitates difficult endodontic treatments at little additional cost.
authors.affiliation: Unit of Endodontology, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK; Department of Orthodontics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
authors.forename: Wicher J
authors.initials: WJ
authors.lastname: van der Meer
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of Groningen, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
authors.forename: Arjan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Vissink
authors.affiliation: Unit of Endodontology, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK.
authors.forename: Yuan Ling
authors.initials: YL
authors.lastname: Ng
authors.affiliation: Unit of Endodontology, UCL Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK. Electronic address: k.gulabivala@ucl.ac.uk.
authors.forename: Kishor
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Gulabivala
mesh_terms: D017076:Computer-Aided Design; D054893:Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / Q000379:methods; D003786:Dental Pulp Cavity; D004708:Endodontics / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D003765:Models, Dental; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D066330:Printing, Three-Dimensional; D012390:Root Canal Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D012984:Software; D014092:Tooth Root
keywords: 3D printing; 3D treatment planning; Directional guide; Endodontic; Obliteration; Rapid prototyping