B. S. Chong

Molecular and Cultural Analysis of the Microflora Associated with Endodontic Infections

Cultural studies have indicated that a subset of the oral microflora is responsible for endodontic infections. Approximately 50% of oral bacteria are unculturable, so it is likely that currently unknown bacteria are present in such infections. In this study, cultural and molecular analyses were performed on the microflora in aspirate samples collected from 5 infected root canals. 16S rDNA sequences from 261 isolates and 624 clones were identified by comparison with database sequences. Sixty-five taxa were identified, of which 26 were found by the molecular method alone. A mean of 20.2 taxa was found in each sample. A new species of Dialister was the only organism present in all 5 samples. Twenty-seven novel taxa were detected, 18 of which belonged to the phylum Firmicutes and 8 to Bacteroidetes. Culture-independent, molecular analysis has revealed a more diverse microflora associated with endodontic infections than that revealed by cultural methods alone.

Radiopacity of potential root-end filling materials

OBJECTIVES In recent years various root-end filling materials have been suggested for clinical use. The purpose of this study was to assess the radiopacity of some potential materials according to ISO specification 6876. STUDY DESIGN Radiographs were taken of 1-mm thick specimens of eight materials (amalgam, Kalzinol, IRM, Super EBA, Vitrebond, Fuji II LC, Chemfil, gutta-percha); light transmission was assessed densitometrically and related to equivalent thickness of aluminum. RESULTS Commercial glass ionomer cements (Vitrebond, Fuji II LC, Chemfil) had radiopacities below the international standard for root canal sealers (< 3-mm aluminum); three zinc oxide-eugenol cements (Kalzinol, Super EBA, IRM) had radiopacities equivalent to 5 to 8 mm aluminum; and gutta-percha had a radiopacity equivalent to 6.1-mm aluminum. CONCLUSIONS We recommend that root-end filling materials should have a radiopacity greater than that for root canal sealers.

Radiopacity of resin-modified glass ionomer liners and 2 bases

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM Lining and base materials for restorations have traditionally been autopolymerized and include conventional glass ionomer cements. Light-cured resin-modified glass ionomer cements have recently become available, but a lack of information exists regarding their radiopacity. PURPOSE OF STUDY In this study the radiopacity of glass ionomer cements was assessed with a standard method that related densitometric measurements to an equivalent thickness of aluminum. MATERIAL AND METHODS Radiographs were made of specimens with seven materials commonly used as liners and bases: two reinforced zinc oxide-eugenol cements (Kalzinol and Intermediate Restorative Material, De Trey Dentsply), a zinc phosphate cement (SS White, S.S. White Manufacturing), three resin-modified glass ionomer liners (Vitrebond [3M Dental Products], Fuji Lining LC [GC Dental], and Photac-Bond [ESPE Dental Medizin GmbH]), and a conventional glass ionomer liner/base (Ketac-Bond, ESPE Dental-Medizin GmbH), with dentin as a control. The radiopacity of all materials was compared with dentin. RESULTS Kalzinol had the greatest radiopacity of the materials tested. The glass ionomer cements were substantially less radiopaque than other materials. The conventional glass ionomer cement, Ketac-Bond, was more radiopaque than the three resin-modified glass ionomer cements. Of the three resin-modified glass ionomer materials, Vitrebond was the most radiopaque and Fuji Lining LC was the least radiopaque. CONCLUSION Future resin-modified glass ionomer materials are recommended to be formulated to increase radiopacity for improved clinical detection.

Coronal leakage and treatment failure.

This report presents a case in which undiagnosed coronal leakage resulted in failure in the endodontic management of a tooth. Coronal leakage occurred during root canal treatment as a result of the presence of deficient composite resin fillings and secondary caries. Despite repeated visits of cleaning and dressing, the canal continued to be contaminated and symptoms persisted. On referral, the reason for treatment failure was diagnosed. The tooth was successfully treated by the replacement of the deficient fillings, after the elimination of underlying caries. Symptoms resolved enabling the completion of the root canal treatment.

3D imaging, 3D printing and 3D virtual planning in endodontics.

The adoption and adaptation of recent advances in digital technology, such as three-dimensional (3D) printed objects and haptic simulators, in dentistry have influenced teaching and/or management of cases involving implant, craniofacial, maxillofacial, orthognathic and periodontal treatments. 3D printed models and guides may help operators plan and tackle complicated non-surgical and surgical endodontic treatment and may aid skill acquisition. Haptic simulators may assist in the development of competency in endodontic procedures through the acquisition of psycho-motor skills. This review explores and discusses the potential applications of 3D printed models and guides, and haptic simulators in the teaching and management of endodontic procedures. An understanding of the pertinent technology related to the production of 3D printed objects and the operation of haptic simulators are also presented.