European Society of Endodontology position statement: Use of cone beam computed tomography in Endodontics

Abstract

This Position Statement represents a consensus of an expert committee convened by the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) on the use of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in Endodontics. This paper is an update of the ESE CBCT position statement which was published in 2014 (European Society of Endodontology 2014, https://doi.org/10.1111/iej.12267). Recent review articles provide more detailed background information and the basis for this position statement. It is intended that this position statement will be updated at least every 4‐5 years to keep abreast of relevant research. The aim of this paper is to provide clinicians with evidence‐based guidance on the application of CBCT in Endodontics. Since 2014, there has been an increase in the number of clinical studies confirming the positive impact of CBCT on treatment planning, decision‐making when reviewing cases and reduced practitioner stress levels.

Outcome of Root Canal Treatments Using a New Calcium Silicate Root Canal Sealer: A Non-Randomized Clinical Trial

“…The success rate of root canal treatments is normally assessed using clinical and radiographic parameters. The radiographic success is identified by the prevention of the development, reduction in size, or complete disappearance of apical radiolucency, indicative of apical periodontitis [10].…”

Endodontic management of maxillary permanent first molar with seven root canals – Report of two cases

“…19 In addition to periapical radiographs, the cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) might be useful for the assessment and appreciation of extremely complex root canal systems prior to, and aiming to enhance, endodontic management. 20 Technically, the over-enlargement of the root canals should be avoided at all costs in cases with multiple canal configurations, to minimize the chance of root weakness. To overcome the challenges of the isthmus and root canal system irregularities, thermoplastic obturation techniques should be preferred.…”

Dentomaxillofacial CBCT: Clinical Challenges for Indication-oriented Imaging

“…Conversely, the same authors recognized that this 3D examination must be used cautiously for this purpose. 24 The literature clearly demonstrates the negative influence of artifacts in the diagnosis of endodontic cases by using CBCT images, especially in the presence of endodontic obturations of high physical density such as barium sulfate containing gutta-percha [25][26][27][28][29] and metallic pins. 26,27,30,31 The presence of these materials significantly reduces the accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of CBCT in the diagnosis of root fractures.…”