Micro-Computed Tomography Assessment of the Root Canal System

Abstract

Introduction: The root canal system (RCS) is among the complex parts of the body that consists of several anatomical variations. The RCS has also been classified according to different classifications. In one of the classification systems, the RCS consists of the main canal, lateral canal, collateral canal, secondary canal, intercanal, accessory canal (AC), and recurrent canal, whereas in the other classification system, which was presented by the American Association of Endodontists (AAE) in 2020, the RCS consists of the C-shaped canal, lateral canal, furcation canal, and AC. Many researches have already been conducted on using micro-CT in describing the RCS classification in various teeth groups in the jaws. The micro-CT is a method used for the endodontic study, including the morphological study of the RCS. It is one of the non-destructive and high-resolution techniques that is beneficial in obtaining three-dimensional (3D) teeth structures. The method is similar to computed tomography and allows obtaining sections as well as 3D reconstruction of the studied object. Based on the above-mentioned findings, the authors discussed that canals are usually more long oval or ribbon-shaped at the coronal levels, then become oval or round shaped about 1 mm from the apical foramen, indicating that canal shape and number change in the apical third. Conclusion and future perspectives: The micro-CT could be a useful technology in the clinical study of canals, developmental grooves, and comparison of treatment and diagnostic strategies.