Calcified canals: A new approach to an old problem

In fact, this condition frequently limits our ability to treat affected teeth. As we all know, leaving behind untreated, infected canals is a recipe for failure that may lead to extraction. Treating and saving nonvital roots with severe calcification challenges even the most talented practitioner. Various methods of bypassing calcification have been tried, but they frequently result in over-preparation or perforation. Let us take a look at a fresh approach to this old problem.

All treatment begins with a review of the chief complaint, a comprehensive examination, a review of the medical and dental history, diagnosis and treatment planning. It is important to note that not all calcified canals need root canal therapy. The foundation for endodontic treatment is based on the research performed by Kakehashi et al. Their findings established that endodontic care is indicated when there is bacterial contamination, leading to irreversible pulpitis or pulpal necrosis.

Not every problem requires reinventing the proverbial wheel. New use of existing technology may be the answer. For example, surgical templates assist implant placement. Their use for guidance through a calcified root is just a new application.

The process begins with taking a CBCT image to identify and visualize the root canals. CBCT, 3D imaging, frequently reveals canals not observable on 2D conventional periapical films. Examples include those elusive second mesiobuccal canals often missed in maxillary molars or second canals observed in mandibular incisors and premolars. When calcification of canals develops, it commonly starts in the chamber and travels apically. When a tooth undergoes calcific metamorphosis, the canals frequently are obscured from view in the coronal and middle thirds of the root but visible in the root’s apical third. When these canals are examined on the CBCT image, although not visible, a straight path may be imagined from the chamber to the canal in the root’s apical third. Computer software is now available to reproduce this path through the calcification to the remaining canal. SICAT Endo offers a service that streamlines the process.

After capturing the CBCT image, scan a digital impression of the same arch. Superimpose the data set of the digital impression over the data set of the CBCT image. Select four common points on both arches to align the information. Once matched and joined, the previously imagined pathway can be accurately measured from a cusp tip to the residual canal on the software. This digital information is ready to use to create a guide.

The next step is to use software to design a rigid template that fits over the occlusal or incisive surface. The template needs to extend beyond the treated tooth in both directions. This added dimension offers stability when seating the template. A space is designed in the template, over the tooth, to hold a 5 mm metal sleeve. On the computer, align the sleeve with the proposed pathway. Fabricate the template with a 3D printer. After it is created, insert the sleeve into the template. Drills that fit the sleeve’s internal diameter are selected based on the length needed to reach the residual canal. The guide is now complete and ready to use.

The measurement from the top of the sleeve to the viewable canal is determined on the computer. Access is gained through the guide with a low-speed handpiece. Once the residual canal is reached, treatment is completed following standard endodontic practices.

This approach reduces over-preparation of the canal and perforations. The dentist can apply a guide at any point during endodontic care. Each canal would require its own guide. The additional cost to the patient for fabricating the guide is much less than replacing the tooth. It enables predictable treatment of canals that otherwise would not be treatable. Very few patients have turned down the opportunity to save a tooth.

This example of the reapplication of technology may be useful in other areas of dentistry. The only limitation is our imagination. To provide a look into the future, I have listed other challenges we could pursue. I hope you read this with no expectations but rather an open mind for what could be.

Current technology: Patients have multiple electronic medical files containing history and current medications. In the future, DNA may also be available on a file.
Future potential applications: Fingerprint access or retinal scans could securely protect a single medical file that would efficiently transfer medical information to dentists. This information would enable personalized prescription of medications and more accurate use of the patient’s medical history. It may prevent accidental allergic reactions, adverse interactions and overprescribing.

Current technology: Microscopes can view computer screens through their optics.
Future potential applications: Radiographs, CBCT and digitalized impressions should be viewable through the microscope. The dentist could use tracked files (viewable on CBCT) in conjunction with preoperative or intraoperative images, to directly or indirectly guide the instrument, in an image-guided procedure.

Current technology: Ultrasonic light-activated nanoparticle-infused irrigation liquids need to be further adapted for irrigation of the canal system.
Potential dental application: Enhanced ultrasonic irrigation that would eliminate bacteria, viruses and prions.

Current technology: Laser fusion of dentin should be explored for obturation of root canals.
Potential dental application: The endodontic obturation process should seal the dentin and match the root’s physical properties to reestablish its strength. The process should be able to be reversed if retreatment is required.

Current technology: CBCT can identify canals and be used to measure their length accurately.
Potential dental application: This process should be automated.

The future may include significant advances in technology, but the application of existing technology will continue to open the doors for new treatment. Imagination is the key to unlocking those doors.

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