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Introduction: A diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma in adolescent patients is extremely rare. When an oral squamous cell carcinoma lesion arises near the teeth and/or periodontium, it can be easily misdiagnosed as an inflammatory condition of endodontic or periodontal origin., Methods: This is a case report of an otherwise healthy 14-year-old patient who was referred for endodontic evaluation and treatment of a soft-tissue swelling in the anterior maxilla., Results: The unexpected definitive diagnosis of invasive oral squamous cell carcinoma underscores the importance of proper diagnostic testing., Conclusions: Accurate interpretation of pulp testing results, periapical and cone beam computed tomography imaging, timely biopsy, and prompt definitive treatment are critical when a lesion of nonodontogenic origin is suspected., (Copyright © 2024 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Odontogenic infections are one of the most common dental problems, which affect 80%-90% of the population. Untreated odontogenic infections can cause life-threatening complications such as necrotizing fasciitis, descending necrotizing mediastinitis, internal jugular vein thrombosis, cavernous sinus thrombosis, carotid artery pseudoaneurysm or rupture, and systemic inflammatory response syndrome. This report aims to present a mediastinitis case, in a 22-year-old healthy male patient, which originated from an odontogenic infection. The patient was hospitalized because of worsening general health status, despite the antibiotherapy. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed that periapical abscess was spreading to the mediastinum through retropharyngeal space. The patient was successfully treated by IV antibiotherapy, transcervical drainage, and extraction of tooth., Competing Interests: None

Objective: This study aimed to analyze the correlation between crestal alveolar bone loss with the presence of some bacterial species in root canals and the apical lesion area of necrotic teeth., Design: Data from 20 patients with diagnosis of pulp necrosis and acute apical abscesses, without active periodontal diseases, were evaluated. Patients with history of antibiotic usage three months prior to the study, with exposed pulp cavity, and with probing depth >3 mm were not included. The root size, the distance between the bone crest to the tooth apex in the mesial and distal surfaces, and the apical lesion area were measured from standard periapical radiographies by a calibrated examiner. Root canal samples were collected using sterilized paper points. In multirooted teeth, the largest root canal was sampled. Culture, microbial isolation and identification by phenotypic methods were performed. Spearman correlation and exact Fischer test were calculated between higher/lower existing bone crests, according to the median and the presence of specific bacteria., Results: No statistically significant differences were found between occurrence of pathogenic bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis, Porphyromonas endodontalis, and Prevotella intermedia, and groups with higher/lower degree of bone loss (p > 0.05). A negative significant correlation was found between Parvimonas micra and periodontal bone loss (p = 0.02). Additionally, no statistically significant association was found between crestal bone loss and the apical lesion area., Conclusions: It was concluded that, in patients without active periodontitis, the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the root canal was not correlated with periodontal bone loss., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the tissue generated after regenerative endodontic procedure (REP) in the root canal space of an immature mandibular second premolar with pulp necrosis and chronic apical abscess using cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) and histological methods., Methods: REP was performed in an immature mandibular second premolar. At the 3-year follow up, CBCT scans were taken to evaluate the outcome of treatment. As the tooth was not restorable to function, it was extracted and processed for histological examination., Results: CBCT showed a reduction in size of the periradicular radiolucency, with a marginal increase in root length. Apical closure and thickening of the root canal walls were apparent. Histologically, the root canal space was filled with minimally-inflamed fibrous connective tissue. Some cementum-like mineralized connective tissue was evident on the internal canal walls. The apical third showed cementum-like deposits at the apex and the outer canal walls, without dentin formation., Conclusions: The present study of a structurally-failed tooth with prior REP demonstrates that the tissue formed within the root canal space was fibrous connective tissue with cementum-like deposition in the canal space. No evidence of dentin- or pulp-like tissue was found., (© 2018 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.)

A 62-year-old man with a background of type 2 diabetes mellitus presented to the emergency department (ED) with a 5-day history of dental pain, progressive right facial swelling, trismus, dysphagia and voice changes. The oropharynx could not be directly examined completely due to trismus. The patient had a National Early Warning Score of 0 and so was triaged into the 'minors' section of ED. Following assessment by the on-call oral and maxillofacial surgeon, an urgent contrast-enhanced CT demonstrated a large parapharyngeal collection, which required urgent anaesthetic and surgical intervention. The patient developed pulmonary complications postoperatively, but eventually made a full recovery., Competing Interests: Competing interests: None declared., (© BMJ Publishing Group Ltd (unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2018. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.)

Aim: To investigate and compare the radiographic size of acute apical abscess lesions for the presence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus-6 (HHV-6) and human papillomaviruses (HPV) DNA by means of the real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method., Methodology: According to the radiographic size of acute apical abscess lesions, 11 lesions were categorized as large (≥5 mm) and 10 lesions as small (<5 mm). DNA extracts from purulent exudate aspirates of 21 cases of acute apical abscess and 10 control samples were evaluated for the presence of viral loads using real-time PCR methods following the kit protocols recommended by the manufacturers. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared test with Yates's correction and Fisher's exact test., Results: HCMV DNA was detected in 27% of large and in 10% of small abscess lesions. EBV was identified in 18% of large and in 10% of small abscess lesions. HPV and HHV-6 DNA were found in 9% of large abscess lesions. None of the small abscess lesions contained HPV or HHV-6 DNA. Viral coinfections were found in two samples as the pair of HCMV/EBV and HCMV/HHV-6 from large abscess lesions. No significant associations were found between any of the target viruses and size of periapical lesions. As for the healthy pulps used as noninflamed controls, no control specimens contained viral DNA., Conclusions: HCMV was the most frequent herpesvirus amongst the target viruses in samples from both large and small apical abscess lesions. In large lesions, EBV and HHV-6 tended to occur in coinfection with HCMV. Additional studies are required to elucidate the role of herpesviruses in the pathogenesis of periapical abscess., (© 2015 International Endodontic Journal. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Odontogenic cutaneous sinus tracts (OCSTs) are generally primarily misdiagnosed and inappropriately treated by virtue of their rarity and the absence of dental symptoms. Accurate diagnosis and treatment and the elimination of the source of infection can reduce the incidence of complications and relieve the pain of the patient.In this case report, we present the case of an 11-year-old patient with an apparent abscess but an unobvious draining sinus tract in his left cheek. Intraorally, a glass-ionomer-cement filling on the occlusal surface of the left mandibular first molar (tooth 36) was noted. Radiographic examination revealed a radiopaque mass inside the crown and pulp chamber and an irregular, radiolucent periapical lesion surrounding the distal root apex. He was diagnosed with an OCTS secondary to a periapical abscess of tooth 36. Precise root canal therapy (RCT) and chronic granuloma debridement was performed; 6 months later, the abscess and sinus had healed completely, and the periapical lesion had resolved.Odontogenic cutaneous sinus tracts are uncommon in the clinic. This case report reminds us of the significance of OCSTs and provides some implications for their diagnosis and treatment.

Dental infections may lead to severe local or systemic infections such as endocarditis, brain abscesses and mediastinitis. Fever may be the only symptom. We aim to highlight dental/odontogenic abscesses as the occult source of unexplained fever by reporting on three cases and reviewing the relevant literature. Early dental evaluation and referral of patients with persistent fever (even without any oral symptoms) to a dentist plays a critical role in preventing unnecessary, time-consuming and high-cost further diagnostic tests and invasive procedures. A simple panoramic dental radiography may suffice to establish the diagnosis.

Introduction: Facial computed tomography (CT) is often performed in the emergency department as a part of the diagnostic workup for patients presenting with the signs and symptoms of dentoalveolar abscess (DA). This investigation evaluated the diagnostic yield of the facial CT and its effects on management change in patients suspected of DA. Furthermore, we assessed secondary consequences of routine facial CT use in this population by using turn-around time (TAT), cost, and radiation exposure as the key parameters., Material and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed records of suspected DA patients over a 5-year period, from June 2008 to June 2013. TAT was calculated for patients from the time the examination was ordered by the emergency department physician, to the time the report was finalized by the attending radiologist. Effective radiation dose for facial CT was calculated by multiplying dose length product by the standard conversion coefficient K (K = 0.0021 mSv/mGy x cm). CT cost was included for reference but was not analyzed extensively due to the lack of standardization of costs across the various institutions., Results: Our investigation consisted of 117 patients; 75 males of average age 41 (±12) years and 42 females of average age 44 (±17) years. Out of the total 117 patients that underwent CT for the suspicion of a simple DA, only a single individual (0.85%) underwent a management change. Mean TAT of facial CT was 110 (±63) minutes, and a median TAT was 87 (±71) minutes. Average effective radiation dose for a facial CT was 2.4 (±0.4) mSv. Approximate estimated cost of a contrast enhanced facial CT was $253 and non-contrast facial CT was $209., Conclusion: Our study shows that routine use of facial CT has a very limited diagnostic value in the workup of simple DA and rarely results in management change. The overall impact on patient management is miniscule in the context of prolonged TAT, radiation exposure, and adding to the rising medical costs., (© 2015 Marshfield Clinic.)

A case of an unusual anomaly in a maxillary canine is described. A deep enamel invagination resulted in pulpal necrosis, longstanding infection and development of an associated radicular cyst. Diagnostic X-ray imaging was invaluable in demonstrating the complex root anatomy of the dilated odontome. In particular, a cone beam CT scan helped in the formulation of an appropriate treatment plan. Clinical Relevance: Three-dimensional imaging using cone beam CT was valuable in this case to demonstrate the complicated anatomy of a rare dental anomaly, and to help plan treatment.

Background: Cutaneous sinus tracts of dental origin are frequently misdiagnosed and incorrectly treated. Intraoral roentgenograms are valuable for diagnosing such tracts. Since these lesions are usually not accompanied by dental symptoms, patients tend initially to consult dermatologists or general physicians, who are not familiar with oral diseases or intraoral X-rays., Objectives: We sought to determine the usefulness of ultrasonography for detecting cutaneous sinus tracts of dental origin., Materials and Methods: Three patients who had skin lesions that were suspected of being cutaneous sinus tracts based on the findings of clinical and histological examinations were enrolled in this study. B mode and color Doppler ultrasonography were used to image the skin lesions in their entirety and to assess the associations between the subcutaneous lesions and any alveolar bone defects., Results: In each case, ultrasonography depicted a hypoechoic band that originated from the cutaneous lesion and extended through the subcutaneous tissue to the alveolar bone. Bone loss was also observed, and color Doppler ultrasonography detected increased blood flow in the peripheral regions of the tracts., Conclusions: In the present study, the patients' sinus tracts were rapidly detected using ultrasonography, which enabled appropriate treatment. Thus, ultrasonography is a convenient tool for diagnosing cutaneous sinus tracts of dental origin.

Introduction: Dens invaginatus type 3 is an anomaly characterized by an invagination of enamel and dentin that can extend up to the root apex. It may pose treatment challenges when nonsurgical root canal therapy is deemed necessary. Conventional diagnostic aids such as periapical radiographs play an important role in the assessment of complex root canal morphologies. However, these modalities may sometimes yield insufficient diagnostic information. Cone-beam computed tomographic imaging produces 3-dimensional digital images and provides the clinician with a more in-depth understanding of the true morphology of the root canal system., Methods: This case report describes the diagnosis and conservative treatment of an unusual case of a maxillary canine with an infected type 3 dens invaginatus and an associated periradicular lesion in which the vitality of the surrounding pulp was maintained. Mineral trioxide aggregate was used to fill the entire invagination, whereas the circular true root canal system around the invagination with vital pulp was left untreated., Results: At the 1-year follow-up examination, clinical and radiographic findings showed that a diligent nonsurgical endodontic treatment can result in satisfactory periradicular healing and complete root formation., Conclusions: The use of cone-beam computed tomographic imaging as an auxiliary tool for both diagnosis and planning the treatment of these anomalies is highlighted., (Copyright © 2014 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Reasons for Performing Study: Computed tomographic (CT) studies evaluating the relevance of individual CT features of apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth are lacking., Objectives: To study the prevalence and relationship of single CT features in horses with and without clinical evidence of apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth., Study Design: Retrospective case-control study., Methods: Multislice CT scans of the head of 49 horses were evaluated retrospectively. Changes of the infundibulum, pulp, root, lamina dura, periodontal space and alveolar bone in maxillary cheek teeth were recorded., Results: Single CT changes were much more prevalent in the 28 horses with clinical signs. However, infundibular changes and a nondetectable lamina dura were also common in the 21 horses without clinical evidence of apical infection. Computed tomographic abnormalities of the pulp, root, periapical bone and periodontal space and the presence of a tooth fracture were significantly related. Infundibular changes were not associated with other CT signs of apical infection. Although nondetectable lamina dura was the most frequent CT change in all teeth in both studied groups, it was most commonly a solitary feature in otherwise normal teeth. Apical infections, defined as ≥3 CT changes, occurred mainly in the 108/208, 109/209 and 110/210 (Triadan numbers) and were found only in horses with clinical evidence of apical infection, except in one horse without clinical signs that had one affected root., Conclusions: Combined CT changes of the pulp, root, lamina dura, periapical bone and periodontal space and the presence of a tooth fracture appear to be reliable features to diagnose apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth. As a solitary feature, a nondetectable lamina dura should be interpreted cautiously and may even be considered normal due to its minor thickness and/or too low resolution of the imaging modality., (© 2013 EVJ Ltd.)

Introduction: Revitalization procedures have been widely used for the treatment of immature permanent teeth with apical periodontitis. The treatment procedures appear to be capable of encouraging continued root development and thickening of the canal walls. The nature of tissues formed in the canal space and at the root apex after revitalization has been shown histologically in several animal studies; similar studies in humans were recently reported., Methods: A 9-year-old boy had a traumatic injury to his upper anterior teeth. Tooth #9 suffered a complicated crown fracture with a pulp exposure, which was restored with a composite resin. The tooth developed a chronic apical abscess. Revitalization procedures were performed on tooth #9 because it was an immature permanent tooth with an open apex and thin canal walls. Twenty-six months after revitalization, the tooth had a horizontal crown fracture at the cervical level and could not be restored. The tooth was extracted and processed for routine histological and immunohistochemical examination to identify the nature of tissues formed in the canal space., Results: Clinically and radiographically, the revitalization of the present case was successful because of the absence of signs and symptoms and the resolution of periapical lesion as well as thickening of the canal walls and continued root development. The tissue formed in the canal was well-mineralized cementum- or bone-like tissue identified by routine histology and immunohistochemistry. No pulp-like tissue characterized by the presence of polarized odontoblast-like cells aligning dentin-like hard tissue was observed., Conclusions: The tissues formed in the canal of revitalized human tooth are similar to cementum- or bone-like tissue and fibrous connective tissue., (Copyright © 2013 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Thorough knowledge of root canal morphology is essential for the endodontic therapy. Variations in the root and root canal morphology, especially in multirooted teeth, are a constant challenge for diagnosis and management. The dentist needs to be familiar with the various root canal configurations and their variations for successful endodontic therapy. There are rare variations in canal number and configuration in maxillary molars, which could affect treatment outcome. Two lingual root structures are occasionally found on human permanent maxillary molars. One of these is the normal lingual root, which is always present, the other is a supernumerary structure which can be located either mesiolingually (radix mesiolingualis) or distolingually (radix distolingualis). The purpose of this paper is to review the literature and to demonstrate a case report which describes the successful non-surgical endodontic management of an unusual maxillary first molar with four separate roots and four canals.

A 30-year-old man presented with an acute left eye proptosis, pain, and decreased vision. He had been having a dental infection since 3 days. Orbital CT scan showed abscess in the left orbit. On dental X-ray a periapical radiolucency of the mandibular left-second molar was observed, and no obvious sinus involvement was noted. Intravenous antibiotic therapy did not lead to any significant improvement. Therefore, the patient underwent combined dental and orbital surgery to drain the abscess. Following the surgery, the patient's clinical signs and symptoms resolved completely.

Background: This pilot case study aimed at evaluating the possibility of achieving optimal hard and soft tissue regeneration using plasma rich in growth factors (PRGF) and anorganic bovine bone (ABB) for the surgical treatment of a large through-and-through periapical bone lesion., Case Report: Maxillary incisors of a patient with through-and-through periapical lesion of endodontic origin were treated using modern endodontic surgical technique with the adjunct of PRGF. The PRGF clot was positioned over the palatal side of the lesion while the remaining bone defect was grafted with PRGF and ABB. A collagen membrane embedded with plasma very rich in growth factors covered the graft. Post-operative pain and swelling were negligible, and soft tissue healing was very fast. One-year clinical and radiographic outcome showed complete healing and functionality., Discussion: The addition of PRGF to ABB could improve the regenerative process, reducing postoperative symptoms and resulting in a fast and predictable hard and soft tissue healing.

Introduction: The aim of the study was to compare the healing responses of platelet-rich plasma (PRP), PRP + a collagen sponge, and a collagen membrane used as guided tissue regeneration (GTR) materials for the treatment of apicomarginal defects., Methods: Thirty patients with suppurative chronic apical periodontitis and apicomarginal communication were selected and allocated randomly into three groups according to the barrier technique to be used during periradicular surgery: the collagen membrane group, the PRP group, and the PRP + collagen sponge group. Clinical and radiographic measurements were determined at baseline and every 3 months after surgery up to 1 year. Cases were defined as healed when no clinical signs or symptoms were present, and radiographs showed complete or incomplete (scar tissue) healing of previous radiolucencies., Results: The PRP and PRP + collagen sponge groups depicted 83.33% and 88.89% healing, respectively, in terms of combined clinical-radiographic healing as compared with 80% in the collagen membrane group. All the three treatments showed highly significant (P < .05) reductions in the periodontal pocket depth (PD), the clinical attachment level (CAL), the gingival margin position (GMP), the size of the periapical lesion, the percentage reduction of the periapical rarefactions, and periapical healing. No significant differences between the three groups were evident for these parameters (P > .05)., Conclusions: GTR applied to apicomarginal defects using PRP or PRP + collagen sponge lead to similar enhancements of the clinical outcome of periradicular surgery in terms of periapical healing, gain of periodontal support, PD reduction, and PRP may be an alternative treatment for GTR membrane in the treatment of apicomarginal defects., (Copyright © 2011 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Periradicular surgery aims to achieve complete wound healing and regeneration of the periodontal unit. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a platelet concentrate that is widely used to promote tissue healing, and bone induction through its various growth factors has been used in this study. This case report describes the use of PRP unilaterally in a bilateral periapical lesion in the same patient. The site treated with PRP showed better healing than the untreated site. This was confirmed with computed tomography (CT) scan readings. It was hypothesized that PRP could promote tissue regeneration and alveolar bone repair.

There is a saying that knowledge is power. Without realizing it, 2-D imaging has created a large information gap due to its limitations as a technology resource. As dental professionals, we have relied on this technology while rarely questioning its validity or the quality of information it provided to us. With the advent of 3-D imaging, that information gap has been narrowed. CBCT imaging has stretched our boundaries, allowing for complete and accurate information in all 3 dimensions. This new knowledge is a most powerful force in dentistry that will dynamically change our ideas, diagnoses, and treatment options. It is the author's belief that the implementation of this technology will lead to new innovations and better care in all specialties of dentistry.

Background: Odontogenic focal infection (OFI) is considered to be an important precipitating factor in some cases of palmoplantar pustulosis and psoriasis. In Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP), it is clear that acute bacterial infection is one of the causes. However, it remains unclear how OFI participates in the pathogenesis of HSP., Methods: To clarify how OFI is related to the disease activity of HSP in terms of skin lesions and organ involvement, we conducted a retrospective study of 28 cases of adult-type HSP., Results: Panoramic x-ray screening detected OFI in 14 of the 28 patients. Patients with OFI had higher incidences of renal and gastrointestinal complications than those without OFI. Seven patients had severe OFI and underwent tooth extraction, resulting in a marked improvement of their skin lesions. Five of those seven patients exhibited transient flare-up after the tooth extraction., Conclusions: Latent OFI is an important infectious focus that is involved in the pathogenesis of HSP and influences its disease activity., (© 2011 The International Society of Dermatology.)

The aim of this study was to quantify the frequency of positive radiographic findings in edentulous arches. Panoramic radiographs from 271 patients who were edentulous in one or both arches were evaluated for the presence of retained root fragments, impacted teeth, foreign bodies, radiolucencies, radiopacities, mental foramina at or near the crest of the residual alveolar ridge, and maxillary sinus proximity to the crest of the residual alveolar ridge. One or more of these radiographic observations were found in 51.7% of the examined films. The most frequent finding (30.6%) was close approximation of the maxillary sinus to the crest of the ridge. These results underscore the importance of panoramic examination of edentulous patients in detecting potential problems before complete denture treatment. However, prescribing such an examination in patients seeking replacement dentures requires a thorough patient history and clinical examination.

Background: Leukemia is a fatal disease. The oral manifestations of the leukemias occur early in the course of the disease and these oral features can at times act as a diagnostic indicator. Saliva has been used as a diagnostic aid in a number of systemic diseases., Materials and Methods: In our study, samples of unstimulated saliva of 30 leukemia patients who were not on chemotherapy were collected and analyzed for salivary amylase and total protein. The oral manifestations and radiographic changes (OPG) were recorded. The correlation between the oral manifestations and the salivary components (salivary amylase and total protein) was assessed for prognostic significance., Results: In the present study when the mean values of salivary amylase (1280±754 U/ml) and total protein (647.2±320.7 mg%) were compared with that in control subjects. There was a statistically significant difference for amylase levels (P<.05). On intraoral examination the study subjects showed pallor, gingivitis, gingival enlargement, petechiae, and ecchymosis. On the OPG, the radiographic features included generalized rarefaction of bone (20%), thinning of lamina dura (3.4%), generalized alveolar crest bone resorption (30%), thinning of walls of alveolar crypts (6.7%), besides others, e.g., periapical abscess (10%)., Conclusions: The saliva of leukemic patients demonstrated obvious changes in composition. A rise in salivary amylase and total protein levels was evident, with the increase in amylase levels being statistically significant.

Bovine tuberculosis is a zoonotic disease, and although its incidence has dramatically decreased in developed countries where effective control measures are applied, it still remains a potential health hazard in the developing world. Tuberculosis of the oral cavity is extremely rare and is usually secondary to pulmonary involvement. We present the unusual case of an immunocompetent 6-year-old child residing in an urban area with primary oral tuberculosis due to Mycobacterium bovis, which was confirmed by the application of a molecular genetic approach. M. bovis belongs to Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex which comprises species with close genetic relationship, and for this reason, the use of new molecular techniques is a useful tool for the differentiation at species level of the closely related members of this complex.

Cutaneous sinus tract on the head and neck area in a child may originate from dental disease. A high degree of clinical suspicion and complementary tests are often needed, as the diagnosis is usually not straight forward. Anatomical correlation is also useful in tracing the affected tooth or teeth. We present the case of a boy with a facial sinus tract that originated from periapical abscesses of maxillary molars.

A case of adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) in which cheek swelling was the initial symptom is presented. A 44-year-old man referred to our hospital with swelling in his right cheek, and a dental infection was suspected by a previous physician. Computerized tomographic scans and magnetic resonance imaging revealed tumorous lesions from the right alveolus of the maxilla to the anterior and posterior walls of the maxillary sinus. Anti-HTLV-1 antibodies were positive, and the level of sIL-2R was high; other laboratory test results were normal., based on immunohistochemical results on a specimen biopsy, the patient was diagnosed with a lymphoma-type ATLL. Immediately, the patient was treated in the department of hematologic medicine. After several courses of multiagent chemotherapy, 27 Gy radiation therapy was directed to the maxilla. However, remission was not achieved. Cord blood transplantation was subsequently performed, but his general condition gradually worsened until he died 7 months after his initial visit., (Copyright 2010 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To report the non-surgical management of a large periapical lesion., Summary: Surgical treatment of large periapical lesions is often subject to various complications. Hence, a non-surgical approach should be considered for the management of these lesions. The traditional aspiration technique involves creation of buccal and palatal wounds that can cause considerable discomfort for the patient. This case report describes a simple aspiration technique achieved through the root canal space, which might hasten osseous regeneration, whilst eliminating the need for periapical surgery., Key Learning Points: Non-surgical techniques can aid in healing of periapical lesions. Non-surgical approaches should be considered before resorting to surgery.

Diagnostic radiology has undergone profound changes in the last 30 years. New technologies are available to the dental field, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) as one of the most important. CBCT is a catch-all term for a technology comprising a variety of machines differing in many respects: patient positioning, volume size (FOV), radiation quality, image capturing and reconstruction, image resolution and radiation dose. When new technology is introduced one must make sure that diagnostic accuracy is better or at least as good as the one it can be expected to replace. The CBCT brand tested was two versions of Accuitomo (Morita, Japan): 3D Accuitomo with an image intensifier as detector, FOV 3 cm x 4 cm and 3D Accuitomo FPD with a flat panel detector, FOVs 4 cm x 4 cm and 6 cm x 6 cm. The 3D Accuitomo was compared with intra-oral radiography for endodontic diagnosis in 35 patients with 46 teeth analyzed, of which 41 were endodontically treated. Three observers assessed the images by consensus. The result showed that CBCT imaging was superior with a higher number of teeth diagnosed with periapical lesions (42 vs 32 teeth). When evaluating 3D Accuitomo examinations in the posterior mandible in 30 patients, visibility of marginal bone crest and mandibular canal, important anatomic structures for implant planning, was high with good observer agreement among seven observers. Radiographic techniques have to be evaluated concerning radiation dose, which requires well-defined and easy-to-use methods. Two methods: CT dose index (CTDI), prevailing method for CT units, and dose-area product (DAP) were evaluated for calculating effective dose (E) for both units. An asymmetric dose distribution was revealed when a clinical situation was simulated. Hence, the CTDI method was not applicable for these units with small FOVs. Based on DAP values from 90 patient examinations effective dose was estimated for three diagnostic tasks: implant planning in posterior mandible and examinations of impacted lower third molars and retained upper cuspids. It varied between 11-77 microSv. Radiation dose should be evaluated together with image quality. Images of a skull phantom were obtained with both units varying tube voltage, tube current, degree of rotation and FOVs. Seven observers assessed subjective image quality using a six-point rating scale for two diagnostic tasks: periapical diagnosis and implant planning in the posterior part of the jaws. Intra-observer agreement was good and inter-observer agreement moderate. Periapical diagnosis was found to, regardless of jaw, require higher exposure parameters compared to implant planning. Implant planning in the lower jaw required higher exposure parameters compared to upper jaw. Substantial dose reduction could be made without loss of diagnostic information by using a rotation of 180 degrees, in particular implant planning in upper jaw. CBCT with small FOVs was found to be well-suited for periapical diagnosis and implant planning. The CTDI method is not applicable estimating effective dose for these units. Based on DAP values effective dose varied between 11-77 microSv (ICRP 60, 1991) in a retrospectively selected patient material. Adaptation of exposure parameters to diagnostic task can give substantial dose reduction.

Reasons for Performing Study: Infundibular changes are frequently encountered computed tomographic studies of the equine maxillary cheek teeth but the possible importance of this finding is not known. Infundibular caries is a possible cause for pulpitis and apical infection in some horses., Objectives: To study the relationship between the 2 pathologies and the frequency of changes., Methods: The maxillary cheek teeth 108-208, 109-209 and 110-210 of 25 horses were evaluated using computed tomography and both the prevalence of infundibular and apical infection changes as the possible link with apical infection evaluated statistically., Results: The prevalence of infundibular changes was high in both normal and diseased teeth. Both apical infection and the occurrence of infundibular changes were more prevalent in 109-209 and 110-210. In spite of this, the 2 processes could not be linked to one another. No differences were noted between the left and right sides., Conclusions: A direct relationship between the 2 processes was not established statistically and other underlying causes for the high occurrence of both apical infection and infundibular changes in diseased and normal 108-208, 109-209 and 110-210 are considered.

Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the effects of induced periapical abscesses on pregnant rats., Design: In 1/2 of the animals (n=16), the pulps of the maxillary right molars were exposed to the oral environment, which resulted in a periapical abscess. The other 1/2 (n=16) were sham-operated. 1/2 of the animals of both groups became pregnant 2 weeks later. The pregnancy duration, and weight and number of pups were assessed at delivery. Serum, liver and uterine horn samples were taken from all animals at euthanasia and serum IL-6, endothelin-1, TNF-alpha, IL-10, cortisol and insulin were determined by ELISA. Liver concentrations of IL-6, CRP and IL-6 and uterine horn concentrations of IL-6, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), TNF-alpha, IL-10 and IL-1-beta were assessed by ELISA. Blood glucose concentrations were determined using a glucometer. Outcome variables were compared by factorial ANOVA, a post hoc Tukey test, and Pearson's correlation test., Results: Pregnant rats with periapical abscesses had a significantly longer pregnancy and delivered pups with a significantly higher birthweight (p<0.05). They had significantly higher concentrations of IL-6, VEGF, IL-1-beta, and IL-10 within the uterine horn and IL-6, CRP and TNF-alpha within the liver (p<0.01). Blood glucose and serum TNF-alpha, IL-6, endothelin-1, IL-10, and insulin concentrations were significantly higher in the pregnant animals with pulpal abscesses (p<0.01)., Conclusion: The significant increase in serum TNF-alpha, taken together with significant increases in blood glucose and serum insulin concentrations, suggest that animals with induced periapical abscesses developed insulin resistance, which significantly affected their pregnancy outcomes.

Aim: To assess bacteria in the apical portion of the root end after 45 degrees root-end resection in teeth with persistent periapical lesions., Methodology: The study included 27 apical root segments from patients with persistent periapical lesions. Histological sections of the coronal part of the amputated root segment were stained with Brown and Brenn to detect the presence of bacteria in the main root canal and/or in irregular root spaces and dentinal tubules. The quality of each root canal filling was evaluated using preoperative radiographs of filling, length of root filling as assessed from the distance between its apical end and the radiographic apex, diameter of apical preparation, and presence of apical perforations or deviations from the root canal. Two endodontists, blinded to the bacteriological results, independently evaluated the radiographs., Results: Bacteria were present in 23 (85.2%) specimens: five in only the main canal (21.7%), 10 in only the dentinal tubules and irregular spaces (43.5%), and eight in both irregular spaces and dentinal tubules and in the main root canal (34.8%). No correlation was found between the technical quality of the root filling assessed radiographically and bacterial presence in the central canal or irregular areas., Conclusions: Infected irregular areas were found in the root tips of teeth with persistent periapical lesions. This was found regardless of the radiographic quality of the root filling. Diagonal, 45 degrees root-end resection may expose such contaminated irregularities to the periapical tissue.

This paper describes the clinical courses of three cases with extra-oral sinus tract formation, from diagnosis and treatment to short-term follow-up and evaluation. All teeth involved had periradicular radiolucent areas noted on radiographic examination and extra-oral sinus tracts appearing on the chin with exudation and unpleasant aesthetic appearance. The adopted treatment protocol included treating the sinus tract surface simultaneously with the root canal therapy. After root canal shaping using 5.25% sodium hypochlorite solution, calcium hydroxide-based pastes associated with different vehicles were inserted into the root canal for 4 months, and were changed monthly. All the sinus tracts healed in 7 to 10 days. The apical lesions were completely repaired in a maximum period of 24 months. The treatment adopted provided a complete healing of the periapical lesions in a short follow-up period. Surgical repair of the cutaneous sinus tract was therefore unnecessary.

Lateral root perforation unnoticed during post-space preparation, and followed by post cementation, can subsequently be challenging to diagnose in the labio-lingual plane due to the two-dimensional nature of conventional radiography. This paper demonstrates the application of a recently developed three-dimensional imaging system, cone beam computed tomography, in the diagnosis of iatrogenic root perforation. A clinical case is reported where labial post perforation in a maxillary central incisor occurring 15 years previously presented with a sinus tract and radiolucent lesion. Non-surgical retreatment and perforation repair using mineral trioxide aggregate was performed with the aid of an operating microscope. The sinus tract resolved with radiographic evidence of healing at 1-year recall.

Uncommon developmental abnormalities such as fused or geminated teeth are of interest for the clinical problems associated with them. A rare case of fusion between maxillary primary central and lateral incisors and a supplemental incisor occurring bilaterally is presented. The patient was a 4-year-old Thai boy. Intraoral examination revealed an abscess and fistula in the region of the fused teeth as a result of periapical osteolysis. Access cavities were prepared as acute procedures. Because of the unpromising prognosis, surgical removal of the teeth was inevitable. For functional, esthetic, and phonetic rehabilitation, an acrylic denture was incorporated.

Objective: To compare intraoral periapical radiography with 3D images for the diagnosis of periapical pathology., Study Design: Maxillary molars and premolars and mandibular molars with endodontic problems and examined with periapical radiographs and a 3D technique (3D Accuitomo) were retrospectively selected and evaluated by 3 oral radiologists. Numbers of roots and root canals, presence and location of periapical lesions, and their relation to neighboring structures were studied., Results: Among 46 teeth, both techniques demonstrated lesions in 32 teeth, and an additional 10 teeth were found in the Accuitomo images. As regards individual roots, 53 lesions were found in both techniques, and 33 more roots were found to have lesions in Accuitomo images. Artefacts were sometimes a problem in Accuitomo images. In 32 of the 46 cases, all observers agreed that additional clinically relevant information was obtained with Accuitomo images., Conclusions: A high-resolution 3D technique can be of value for diagnosis of periapical problems.

Garre's sclerosing osteomyelitis is a specific type of chronic osteomyelitis that mainly affects children and young adults. This disease entity is well-described in dental literature and is commonly associated with an odontogenic infection resulting from dental caries. This paper describes a case of Garre's osteomyelitis in a 10-year-old boy, in whom the condition arose following pulpoperiapical infection in relation to permanent mandibular right first molar. Clinically the patient presented with bony hard, non-tender swelling and the occlusal radiograph revealed pathognomic feature of "onion skin" appearance. The elimination of periapical infection was achieved by endodontic therapy and the complete bone remodeling was seen radiographically after three months follow-up.

An orbital abscess is a rare but serious complication of an odontogenic infection, which can lead to loss of vision or worse. This paper presents a case of orbital abscess secondary to an infection from the upper molar teeth, which extended to the retobulbar and posterosuperior region of the orbit, close to the superior orbital fissure. The infection spreaded to the pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossa and then to the orbit via the inferior orbital fissure. This paper reviews the clinical presentation, differential diagnosis, route of spread, value of serial CT scanning, treatment and possible complications.

Radiography by use of the three-dimensional (3D) Accuitomo XYZ Slice View Tomograph (3DX), a device for compact computed tomography in dentistry, was performed as a new diagnostic imaging technique for a patient who needed endodontic therapy. The 3DX was used for examining and diagnosing the presence and expansion of periradicular lesions in each root of a multirooted tooth. High-resolution 3D images were observed and compared with those obtained by routine conventional radiography. It was difficult to diagnose the cause of clinical symptoms by general examinations including the usual intraoral radiography and panoramic radiography. The images obtained by the 3DX, however, clearly showed the apparent presence and expansion of a periradicular lesion in only one root of the multirooted tooth. The 3DX, a newly developed dental computed tomography, provides abundant new image information not attainable by either intraoral radiography or panoramic radiography, and its application for clinical use is very effective for examining and diagnosing regions of interest for endodontic therapy.

Nonsurgical endodontic therapy of a right mandibular first molar with 3 distal roots was successfully performed with the aid of magnification. 3D data (DICOM format) of the tooth were obtained from a CT HighSpeed Advantage and a Denta Scan program produced by GE Medical Systems. The CT protocol used for this procedure involved a slit thickness of 1 mm. The 3D digital data obtained were fed into a visualization program (V-works; Cybermed Co) and then exported to the rapid prototyping machine for fabrication of the actual-sized tooth model. The material for the model-making process was starch. The 3D digital visualization and the computer-aided rapid prototyping (CARP) model clearly showed 3 separate distal roots (distobuccal, distolingual, and middle distal). The CARP technique seems to be a useful imaging technology to document unusual root anatomy in clinical dentistry.