stupid root canals Flashcards

1
Q

Why is a healthy pulp important?

A
  1. Completion of root formation in immature teeth - primary dentine
  2. Continued lifelong tooth development - secondary dentine
  3. Protection against infection - tertiary dentine
  4. Maintenance of sensory function
  5. Maintenance of elasticity of dentine
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2
Q

What is the aim of endo tx?

A

To prevent or treat periapical periodontitis by eliminating microorganisms from the root canal system and preventing re infection with a well sealed root canal filling and coronal restoration

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3
Q

List 4 sources of threat to the pulp

A

Carious attack
Trauma
Iatrogenic damage
Tooth surface loss

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4
Q

Where is the apical foramina found?

A

0.5-0.7mm from the anatomical and radiographic apex

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5
Q

Where is the apical constriction and why is it relevant?

A

0.5-0.7mm short of the apical foramina
Distance increases with age due to secondary cementum deposition
Electronic apex locators are used to find the position of it

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6
Q

What should a history include if trauma was involved?

A

Time, date and location of incident
Was there loss of consciousness or dizziness - refer to A+E for head investigations
Medical history
Was any emergency tx performed
Type, time and location of any other tx provided prior

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7
Q

What should be included in an E/O exam?

A

If acute facial swelling get a provisional diagnosis
Record body temp if difficulty swallowing, breathing and/or facial asymmetry
Palpate TMJ and LNs

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8
Q

What 8 things should be included in an I/O exam?

A

Dental pathology - caries, surface loss, fracture
Palpation
Discolouration (yellow or grey then pulp necrosis) (pink then internal resorption)
Pocketing
TTP
Mobility
Swelling or sinus
Is the tooth in occlusion

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9
Q

How many special investigations are needed for a diagnosis?

A

Two independent positive diagnostic tests

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10
Q

How is a cold test used?

A

Endo frost on cotton wool pledges
-50ºC
Use as first line - good for vital and non-vital teeth

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11
Q

How is a heat test used?

A

Useful if pt unsure which tooth is painful
Use a heated GP stick

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12
Q

How is an electric pulp test used?

A

Dry tooth and use toothpaste as conductive medium
Electric stimulus applied to tooth at variable intensities
Gives digital reading which can be compared to a contra-lateral tooth
Tests A delta fibres
Test the cervical margin of each root

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13
Q

Give 5 reasons for a false positive EPT response from a non-vital tooth

A

Anxious patient
Young patient
Partially vital teeth - multi-rooted
Canal full of pus
When in close contact with gingival tissues or metallic restorations

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14
Q

Give 5 reasons for a false-negative response from vital teeth

A

Any from:
- heavily restored teeth
- older patients due to secondary dentine deposition
- recently traumatised teeth
- partially vital teeth
- nerve supply damaged but blood supply intact
- teeth undergoing/recent ortho tx
- pt under the influence of sedative drugs/alcohol - increased threshold

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15
Q

Name 4 other tests used to aid in definitive diagnosis?

A

Palpation
Percussion
Mobility
Radiographs - periapical

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16
Q

Why are pre-op radiographs taken?

A

To identify pathology and aid diagnosis
To assess restorability
To identify estimated working length

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17
Q

What are the minimum standards and images for endo tx?

A

Pre-operative PA
Sometimes mid-operative PA to ensure correct length prior to obturation
Post-obturation
Review

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18
Q

Give 4 reasons to take supplemental radiographs?

A

Perforation
Negotiating calcified canals
Staged obturation
To check post-space preparation

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19
Q

Give 4 indications for a CBCT in endo

A

Analysis of complex root canal systems
Assessment of treatable resorption
Pre-surgical assessment before peri-radicular surgery
Identified of extensively obliterated canals

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20
Q

What is dentine hypersensitivity?

A

Exposed dentine tubules causing pulpal hyperaesthesia

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21
Q

What causes dentine hypersensitivity and how does it present?

A

Causes - TSL, internal bleaching, gingival recession
Sharp pain with cold
Lasts no longer than a few seconds after stimulus removed
Never spontaneous

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22
Q

How is dentine hypersensitivity managed?

A

Manage the aetiology
Fluoride varnish
OH and diet advice
Desensitising agents

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23
Q

What is reversible pulpitis?

A

Inflammation of vital pulp that returns to normal with the management of the aetiology

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24
Q

What causes reversible pulpitis and how does it present?

A

Causes - caries, TSL, trauma or fracture
Sharp pain with cold, sweet or hot
Lasts no longer than a few seconds after the stimulus is removed
Never spontaneous

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25
How is reversible pulpitis managed?
Restorations (direct or indirect) to manage the aetiology
26
What is irreversible pulpitis?
Inflammation of vital pulp that is incapable of healing Can be symptomatic or asymptomatic
27
What causes irreversible pulpitis?
Caries TSL Trauma Fracture
28
What is the presentation of irreversible pulpitis?
Dull aching pain with hot or cold Lasts for a prolonged period after stimulus is removed Can be spontaneous Postural changes make it worse May keep pt awake Painkillers may be ineffective Pain may be referred
29
How is irreversible pulpitis managed?
RCT XLA
30
How does symptomatic apical periodontitis present clinically and radiographically?
Clinical - pain on biting, TTP and well localised pain Radiographically - may be PDL widening and apical radiolucency
31
How does acute apical abscess present clinically and radiographically?
Severe pain with rapid spontaneous onset TTP Suppuration, swelling and mobility likely Possible systemic symptoms - fever, malaise May have PDL widening and apical radiolucency
32
How does chronically apical abscess present clinically and radiographically?
Typically asymptomatic - may report mild discomfort Sinus tract formation Metallic or bad taste Apical radiolucency
33
How is periodontitis and apical abscesses treated?
RCT XLA
34
How does cracked tooth syndrome present?
Sharp pain on biting or dull ache on release of bite
35
What investigations should be carried out for cracked tooth syndrome?
Percussion and tooth sleuth Mobility Pocket depth Transillumination to identify cracks Occlusal assessment Sensibility testing
36
What are the clinical findings or cracked tooth syndrome?
TTP and tooth sleuth positive Deep, narrow isolated pocket Sensibility can give hyper-response or negative
37
How may cracked tooth syndrome appear radiographically?
In acute cases may appear normal In chronic cases, may be more evident - can see J shaped lesions with bone loss
38
How should a cracked tooth be assessed?
Extent of crack - if sub-gingival then unrestorable Assess pulpal status and treat Assess periodontal support - if extensive bone loss, deep perio pocket and excessive mobility then XLA
39
How should cracked teeth be treated in an emergency?
Occlusal reduction to relieve biting pressure Composite splint to stabilise the cracked portion Place an ortho band if unsure and then review - if symptoms have settled with band then likely crack present
40
What should a pt be informed of for valid consent?
1. All tx options and risks and benefits 2. Why you think tx is necessary 3. Consequences risks and benefits of the tx you propose 4. The likely prognosis 5. Your recommended option 6. Cost 7. What might happen without tx 8. Whether tx is guaranteed and if any exclusions apply
41
Give 8 indications of RCT
Irreversible pulpitis Necrotic pulp Acute or chronic apical periodontitis Acute or chronic apical abscess Non-vital cracked tooth Pulpal exposure Elective devitalisation For the retention of a fixed restoration
42
Give 4 contraindications for RCT
Unrestorable tooth Insufficient periodontal support Vertical root fracture Insufficient operator skill or unable to replace dam
43
What 4 things improve the outcome of primary RCT?
Pre-op abscence of periapical radiolucency Root filling with no voids Root filling extending within 2mm of the radiographic apex Satisfactory coronal seal and restoration
44
List 3 biological objectives of RCT
Disinfect as much of the root canal system as possible Remove potential nutrient sources that support microorganism growth Prevent re contamination of the root canal system
45
Why is irrigation necessary?
Is it not possible to mechanically prepare the entire root canal system due to microorganisms adhering to the root walls
46
How does mechanically shaping the root canal system facilitate cleaning?
Allows direct removal of bacteria and nutrient sources Enables penetration of active agents for disinfection
47
List 4 desired features that should be achieved in canal prep in order to produce an optimal seal in the root canal system
Continuous taper Maintained canal axis position in the centre of the root Maintained original position of the foramen, not enlarged Sufficient space to deliver disinfecting solutions to the canal terminus
48
What should be included in an endo referral letter?
Pt details C/O and HPC MH, SH and DH Examination findings including special tests results and a restorability assessment if possible Diagnostically acceptable periapical Provisional or definitive diagnosis Justification for the referral based on the case difficulty assessment Details of any failed attempts at tx
49
Describe the maxillary canal anatomies
1 - single canal 2 - single canal, often distal curve 3 - single canal 4 - 75% have 2 roots with 1 canal in each 5 - 75% have 1 canal, 24% have 2 canal orifices which converge to give 1 apical foramen 6+7 - majority have 3 roots, mesial root has 2 canals in 96% of cases
50
Describe the mandibular canal anatomies
1+2 - single canal, may have 2 separate canals which fuse in apical portion 3 - one root and one canal, 6% have 2 roots 4+5 - 20-30% of canals start coronally as one canal and divide into 2 or 3 and stay separate 6+7 - distal root 1 canal in 75% cases, 2 canals in 25% - mesial root usually 2 canals, rarely 3
51
What are the 9 steps of endo tx?
Rubber dam isolation Access and canal location Coronal/SLA Irrigation and recapitulation Working length Apical gauging and determining Master Apical File (MAF) Apical preparation Inter-appointment dressing Obturation
52
What are the 6 access cavity design principles?
1. Allow removal of entire contents of pulp chamber 2. Allow visualisation of the pulp floor and canal orifices 3. Allow direct access to apical 1/3 of the canal for instrumentation 4. Allow retention and support of a temp filling material - good seal 5. Provide a reservoir for canal irrigant 6. Be as conservative as possible
53
What can be used for canal location?
DG16 probe
54
How is coronal prep carried out?
If canal narrow, pre-flare with SS hand file using step-back technique up to a size 35 Prepare coronal 2/3 or up to point of curvature (whatever is less) with Gates glidden burs in a crown down technique (sizes 4, 3, 2) Use pre-op radiograph to calculate estimated working length as a guide - approximation only
55
What should happen after use of every instrument in the canal?
Irrigate with sodium hypochlorite (0.5-2.5%) Irrigation needle should be passive within canal and moved in a gentle up/down motion never passing beyond 2mm short of working length Recapitulate with a small file (10)
56
What occurs in apical exploration?
Explore apical anatomy with pre-curved SS hand file (10, 8 or 6)
57
How is the working length ascertained?
Achieve a zero reading on the EAL with a hand file (largest file the canal will allow to seat passively, usually 15 or 20) Take a radiograph with the file left at the length of the zero reading (measure and write down this length and the reference point) Confirm position of file in relation to the radiographic apex If happy with file position on radiograph, subtract 0.5mm from this length to get the working length Confirm from radiograph you have straight line access If unhappy, reconfirm apex locator readings or consider alt methods such as using paper points to help determine working length, repeat radiograph
58
How is apical gauging carried out?
Passively place progressively larger files to 0.5mm beyond the working length The first file that will not pass beyond the working length is the first file to bind and estimates the size of the apical constriction
59
How do you determine the master apical file (MAF)?
Between 1 and 3 sizes larger than the first file to bind at the working length, normally dependent on the canal shape/curvature
60
How is apical preparation carried out?
Prepare up to the MAF at working length using a watch winding motion Prepare the canal using a step back technique from the working length with a watch winding motion Patency at zero reading length Increase the file size every 1mm you step-back, creating a 0.05 or 5 degree taper
61
How can you gauge the canal taper?
Passively place files into the canal until they will go no further (from MAF to largest) and set the rubber stopper to the reference point Measure each file to check your taper Make any necessary adjustments to your preparation if needed
62
What is a MAF radiograph?
A radiograph with the MAF at working length to radiograph confirm preparation length (the file should be 0.5mm shorter than the working length radiograph assuming the length was satisfactory)
63
How is an inter appointment dressing placed?
Dry canals with paper points and place non-setting CaOH into the canals Use the MAF file to apply the CaOH, gently rotating it out of the canal in an anti-clockwise motion Repeat until canal is full Place a barrier (CW) over CaOH and a temp restoration on top (GIC, Kalzinol), ensuring a thickness of at leath 3mm
64
How is the final irrigation carried out?
Rinse with 17% EDTA for 1 minute followed by a thorough rinse with NaOCl Can use a well fitting GP cone (same size as MAF) to perform manual agitation via a GP pumping technique to maximise effectiveness Ideally dry the canals with paper points between using different irrigants
65
What is needed for a master cone radiograph and how is it taken?
Select master cone (same size as MAF) and ensure it seats to working length and has adequate tug-back - if not then modify by removing 0.5mm from the tip with a scalpel until this is achieved Place the master cones to working length and confirm their position with a radiograph
66
How is obturation carried out?
Disinfect the master cones in NaOCl and dry with 3 in 1 Dry canals using paper points Place a thin layer of sealer on the canal walls and seat master cone to length Place a finger spreader up to 1mm short of working length Place a matching accessory cone and repeat process until canal obturated Cut GP at level of canal orifice or level of bony crest if this is lower
67
Describe a post-op radiograph
Radiograph to check length and density of root filling as well as the restoration If not confident about quality of obturation can take this before placing your definitive restoration
68
How should RCT teeth be restored?
Consider placing an orifice barrier - act as a seal in case of future microleakage or loss of definitive restoration eg - GIC/RMGIC/flowable composite Consider the most appropriate definitive restoration: 1. Direct (without cuspal coverage) eg - composite 2. Cuspal coverage (direct or indirect) eg - onlay, partial or full veneer crown 3. Post (only indicated to retain a core/restoration where resistance and retention form are deemed inadequate)
69
When should a RCT be reviewed?
Clinical and radiograph review 12 months later and annually up to 4 years until radiolucency has healed
70
Describe the make up of protaper rotary instruments?
Nickel-Titanium - gives a greater degree of flexibility so more curved roots can be treated 6% taper compared with 2% taper of hand files
71
How are protaper rotary instruments used?
Prep of canal using crown down technique - starting with larger file first This is opposite of the way the apical 1/3 is prepared by hand files Prep starts with largest file, progressing to the smallest - file should be advanced about 1-2mm down the canal not forcing it down A single file cannot be used to prep the whole canal - would cause too much stress in tooth - fracture risk Consider finishing apical 1mm using hand files as the end of the rotary file is thin and fragile - prone to fracture inside the canal - called separation
72
Give 4 advantages of rotary instruments?
Any from: - increased debris removal - less transportation of infected debris from coronal to apical - reduced lodging - they keep centred on the canal - reduced canal transportation - smoother preparation and shaping - less operator fatigue
73
Give 4 disadvantages of rotary instruments
Increased risk of fracturing an instrument Reduced tactile feedback They cannot adequately prepare the apical 1mm - requires hand files Relatively high cost
74
Describe the protaper technique
Scout canal with hand K files 10, 15, 20 until resistance Measure length of number 20K file and transfer to S1 Take S1 to this length, brushing on withdraw Negotiate with 10K file to length Determine working length with EAL and confirm with PA Work number 15 and 20 to working length S2 to length F1 to working length Re-check working length and gauge If tight canal use HP F1 to length, HP F2 (minus 0.5mm) and HP F3 (minus 1mm)
75
Give 4 reasons to use rubber dam during RCT
To minimise risk of contamination of root canal system by oral bacteria in saliva and tissue fluids To prevent ingestion or aspiration of dental materials, irrigants and instruments To provide a controlled operative environment To improve visualisation of the operating field
76
What are the basic stages of RCT?
Assess tooth restorability Prepare an access cavity Identify straight line access Initial canal negotiation and coronal 2/3 flare Apical negotiation and working length determination Apical preparation after working length confirmation
77
How is access to the canal system gained?
Completely remove the roof of the pulp chamber and make sure no ledges or lips are present Probe the canals with DG16 probe - the canal entrance will feel sticky Identify the canals before placement of rubber dam to make sure that you are in the correct place
78
What are Krasner and Rankows anatomical laws regarding the pulp chamber?
Law of centrality Law of concentricity Law of the CEJ
79
What is the law of centrality?
The floor of the pulp chamber is always located in the centre of the tooth at the level of the CEJ
80
What is the law of concentricity?
The walls of the pulp chamber are always concentric to the external surface of the tooth at the level of the CEJ
81
What is the law of the CEJ?
The CEJ is the most consistent, reproducible landmark for locating the position of the pulp chamber The distance from the external surface of the clinical crown to the wall of the pulp chamber are the same throughout the circumference of the tooth at the level of the CEJ
82
What are Krasner and Rankows anatomical laws regarding the pulp chamber floor?
Law of symmetry 1 Law of symmetry 2 Law of colour change Law of orifice location 1 Law of orifice location 2 Law of orifice location 3
83
What is the first law of symmetry?
Except for maxillary molars, the orifices of the canals are equidistant from a line drawn in a mesial distal direction through the pulp chamber floor
84
What is the second law of symmetry?
Except for the maxillary molars, orifices of canals lie on a line perpendicular to a line drawn in a mesial-distal direction across the center of the floor of the pulp chamber
85
What is the law of colour change?
The colour of the pulp chamber floor is always darker than the walls
86
What is the first law of orifice location?
Orifices of root canals are always located at the junction of the walls and the floor
87
What is the second law of orifice location?
Orifices of the root canals are located at the angles in the floor-wall junction
88
What is the third law of orifice location?
Orifices are located at terminus of development root fusion lines (DRFL) - commonly known as the dentine map or grey tracks
89
What is a glidepath?
A smooth pathway from the coronal orifice to the anatomical foramen Allows for larger instruments to follow
90
How is canal negotiation carried out generally?
Start to negotiate canal with size 10 K file Gain info on root canal system - is it wide or narrow, does it divide, is it full of pulp tissue or debris Pre-flaring with progressively larger files is beneficial, especially in narrow canals
91
How is a glide path created?
Systematic approach with small SS K files (6,8,10) Watch winding motion to start opening the canal Progress to larger SS hand files (15,20,25 etc) for pre-flare technique Be cautious with larger files in challenging canals Negotiation must be done with a manual SS instrument
92
Why is coronal flare carried out?
To widen the canals coronally Helps to locate canals better visually and aids straight line access
93
How is a coronal flare obtained?
From PA, measure the length of the root to determine the working length - or apex locator Divide the canal into thirds and measure 2/3 the length on to a Gates Glidden bur (size determined by tooth and canal size) - mark with a rubber stopper Widen the coronal aspect of the canal with the bar and repeat the step with two more advancing size burs - known as a crown down (large to small bur)
94
How does an apex locator work?
Electrical impedence - they emit a visual or audible sound when they reach the apex due to changes in tissue moisture
95
What is the step back method?
Once the apical portion is prepared - the step back prep is used to create a greater taper of the canal Successively larger instruments are used - each 1mm shorter than the previous one
96
How is the step back method carried out?
MAF should extend to the length of 1mm short of the working length (WL1) Select next size file up and subtract 1mm from WL1 (WL2) Mark WL2 on the file using a rubber bung Use this file in the canal until there is no resistance felt against the file Repeat the above step twice more remembering to irrigate - use MAF as a reference in between subsequent files to ensure a tapered smooth, ledge-free canal Clean the canal with saline and dry with paper points ready for obturation
97
How is apical preparation carried out for vital pulps?
Use barbed roaches - looks like barbed wire Made from SS Place in canal, twist anti-clockwise and pull out the vital pulp
98
What is recapitulation?
After use of a file and irrigation, a smaller file is used to loosen with a reciprocating motion ensuring the canal is patent
99
How is apical patency ensured?
A size 10 file should be set at WL+1 and inserted gently just through the constriction at regular intervals to ensure the apex does not become blocked and remains patent
100
Why is irrigation important during RCT?
Filing generates debris which can cause blockage if left - can then lead to inflammation Irrigation helps loosen and clear the debris out and also aids instrumentation by helping to lubricate the canals
101
How is irrigation carried out?
Using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) 2.5% in a blunt, side delivery needle syringe Irrigate passively and take care not to advance the needle past the apex
102
Give 5 advantages of NaOCl as an irrigant?
Effective antimicrobial agent Excellent organic tissue solvent - ability to dissolve organic material from canal by oxidation Lubricant Quick effective agent pH 11
103
Give 3 limitations of NaOCl as a lubricant
Toxic Not substantive Ineffective in smear layer removal - why EDTA is recommended as a penultimate irrigant
104
How does chlorhexidine differ as an irrigant from NaOCl?
Similar antimicrobial effect Doesn’t dissolve the organic debris found in areas inaccessible to hand instrumentation eg - lateral canals
105
How is EDTA used as an irrigant?
A chelating agent which is used as a lubricant Softens the canals’ dentine walls and facilitates canal preparation May also be used as an irrigant at the end of canal prep (penultimately) to remove the smear layer before placement of an inter visit dressing or obturation
106
Name 3 intracanal medicaments?
Non-setting calcium hydroxide Vitapex Ledermix - steroid paste
107
What pH is non-setting CaOH?
UltraCal - 11 HypoCal - 12
108
When is vitapex indicated?
Deep-seated infections of the root canal
109
When is ledermix indicated?
Dressing an inflamed vital pulp prior to commencing RCT Intra-visit medicament if severe periradicular inflammation present
110
List 9 ideal properties of an obturation material
Easily introduced into the canal Doesn’t shrink after use Bacteriostatic Shouldn’t stain the tooth Easy and quick to sterilise before insertion Seal the canal apically and laterally Impermeable Radiopaque Easily removed if necessary
111
List 5 objections of obturation
To provide a 3D hermetic seal to the root canal to: - prevent the ingress of bacteria - coronal seal - incarcerate any microbes remaining in the root canal system - prevent re-infection of the root canal system - prevent diffusion of inflammatory exudate into the canal - as apical seal
112
What are the components of GP?
GP - 15% Zinc oxide - 65% Radiopacifier - 15% Plasticiser - 5%
113
List 5 advantages of GP?
Any from: - cheap - easy to handle - does not deteriorate - radiopaque - biocompatible - non-supportive of microbial growth - can be removed with heat or solvent
114
List 3 disadvantages of GP?
Lack of adhesion to dentine Shrinkage on cooling when heated When exposed to air and light for long periods of time, it oxidises and becomes brittle - can be reconditioned with warm water
115
What taper is found on GP?
116
What may happen if the master GP cone is too small or too long?
To small - apical construction Too long - defective apical resistance - usually due to inaccurate determination of the working length
117
Describe the cold lateral compaction technique
Dry canal with paper points Coat walls of canal with sealer using hand file or finger spreader Lightly coated master GP placed in canal Spreader is measured and inserted into canal with vertical finger pressure for 20 seconds before removal when immediately a lightly coated accessory point is slid into the tract left behind This is repeated until the spreader will reach no deeper than 2-3mm GPs severed with heat and then firmly condensed with a cold instrument, usually a plugger Since the GP isn’t softened with heat it will remain dimensionally stable
118
Describe the warm GP technique
GP heated inside the root canal by use of a hot hand instrument (heat carriers) Root canal given continuous taper - coronal parts designed wider to allow space for the instrument to heat and condense the GP Non-standardised point used as the master GP due to greater flare The point is cut 2-3mm short of WL Sealer applied to walls of root canal and master GP placed and severed at canal entrance with a hot plastic instrument Cold instrument then used to condense the warm GP apically Heat carrier then heated and placed 3-4mm in GP Warm GP again condensed with a cold plugger This is repeated to 5-6mm short of working length when the apical part of the canal is filled If a post is required, obturation is usually considered completed here
119
When complication is commonly seen with the warm GP technique?
Overfilling
120
Describe the injection mould GP technique?
GP is heated outside of the mouth until it is flowable and inserted into the canal by a syringe The canal can be filled in seconds but shrinkage occurs To help counteract shrinkage only 2-3mm of the canal is filled at a time and continuous condensation force is applied to the GP when cooling
121
What complications are commonly seen in the injection mould GP technique?
Overfilling Incompletely filling
122
List 7 properties of root canal sealer
Provide a seal by good adhesion to the canal wall Flow into irregularities Lubricate glide path of GP Bacteriostatic Encourage hard tissue repair Set slowly - allows longer working time for adequate GP compaction and Flow during setting to counteract shrinkage forces
123
Give 2 examples of sealers
Resin based eg - AH Plus Zinc Oxide/Eugenol based eg - Tubliseal
124
Describe AH Plus
Long working time Easy to remove with solvent Irritant until set
125
Describe Tubliseal
Extended working time Eugenol is antimicrobial Doesn’t shrink Soluble in tissue fluid When used with GP a chemical bond forms between zinc in the oxide in the GP point - increasing the stability
126
List 6 factors which reduce the success of RCT
Re-RCT Complex root morphology - sclerosed canals, curved roots, furcation Tooth mobility Inexperienced clinician Existing parafunctional habits Poor OH maintenance
127
What is the radiographic follow up criteria for endo (ESE)?
1 year post tx as a minimum
128
Describe a favourable outcome for endo
Absence of pain, swelling and sinus with no loss of function Radiographic evidence of normal PDL around root No further follow up
129
Describe an uncertain outcome for endo
Radiographic evidence of lesion that has remained the same or only diminished in size but is still present Yearly radiographs for 4 years or until the lesion has revolved Can become favourable or unfavourable
130
Describe an unfavourable outcome for endo
Symptoms of pain and swelling Radiographic evidence of lesion that has increased in size after 1 year or hasn’t completely healed after 4 years Root resorption Further tx is indicated
131
What should the ideal post-op endo radiograph show?
GP should be 0-2mm from the apex Good quality fill Adequate taper GP should reach the CEJ
132
List 4 scenarios where surgical endo may be indicated
Clinical or radiographic evidence of apical pathology that can’t be accessed conventionally Extruded apical material Persistent pathology post RCT where re-RCT is not deemed appropriate Perforation that can’t be accessed through the pulp chamber
133
List 3 surgical endo procedures
Incision and drainage Apicectomy Root hemesection - removal of one root and the retention of the remainder of the tooth in multi-rooted teeth
134
List 5 benefits of maintaining pulp vitality (vital pulp therapy)
Maintains tooth’s defence system Maintains full proprioception function of the tooth Enables continual development of tooth and de to-alveolar complex Endo tx of necrotic pulp is challenging and not always successful Mechanically weakened endodontically treated teeth are more prone to fracture
135
When is an indirect pulp cap indicated?
Dentine is lose due to caries, trauma or previous iatrogenic intervention Cavity exists close to the pulp Dentine still remains over the pulp tissue
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How is an indirect pulp cap carried out
Isolate with rubber dam Complete cavity prep as appropriate - careful approaching pulp floor Disinfect cavity with wet CW with NaOCl - 30s to 1m Cover deepest part of cavity closest to pulp with a CSC or CaOH (CaOH needs to be sealed with GIC or RMGIC) Definitively restore the tooth Clinical review in 6 months and periapical in 1 year
137
When is a direct pulp cap indicated?
When dentine is lost due to caries, trauma or previous iatrogenic intervention and the pulp tissue is exposed Symptoms if present are mild and not indicative of irreversible pulpitis
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How is a direct pulp cap carried out?
Isolate with rubber dam Disinfect tooth with CW soaked with NaOCl until bleeding is controlled If bleeding not controlled, perform a partial pulpotomy Cover exposed pulp with a CSC or CaOH (CaOH needs to be sealed with GIC or RMGIC) Definitively restore tooth Warn patient of possibility of further tx if symptoms occur Clinical review in 6 months and periapical after 1 year
139
When is a partial pulpotomy indicated?
When dentine is lost due to caries, trauma or previous iatrogenic intervention and a cavity exists where soft tissue of the pulp is exposed and bleeding Exposed pulp appears inflamed/contaminated or it is not possible to get haemostasis - may be symptomatic
140
How is a partial pulpotomy carried out?
Isolate with dam Remove superficial coronal pulp tissue and irrigate with sterile saline Control bleeding with CW soaked in NaOCl If bleeding not controlled within 5 minutes, remove further pulp tissue Place CSC or CaOH (CaOH needs sealed with GIC or RMGIC) Definitively restore tooth Clinically review in 6 months and periapical after 1 year
141
When is a full pulpotomy indicated?
Dentine is lost due to caries, trauma or previous iatrogenic intervention and a cavity exists where the soft tissue of the pulp is exposed and bleeding Exposed pulp appears inflamed/contaminated or it is not possible to get haemostasis at a superficial level - may be symptomatic
142
How is a full pulpotomy carried out?
Isolate with dam Completely remove coronal pulp tissue ro canal orifice level Control bleeding with CW soaked in NaOCl If bleeding not controlled within 5 minutes, further pulp tissue should be removed until haemostasis achieved or until confirmed that pulpectomy should be carried out Place CSC or CaOH, seal with GIC or RMGIC and definitively restore tooth Clinically review in 6 months and periapical in 1 year
143
What are the clinical effects of a hypochlorite injury?
If allowed to settle on vital tissues will result in a chemical burn If exposure short then a minimal inflammatory response will be evoked If exposure is more prolonged and/or a higher concentration of solution, a more pronounced inflammatory response will occur which will lead to necrosis of the affected tissue
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What are common symptoms of a hypochlorite accident?
Pain - acute and sudden onset Bleeding/haemorrhage - from the root canal Swelling - can occur minutes to hours after the accident
145
List 7 other rarer symptoms from a hypochlorite accident
Irrigant discharge from nose Bruising of head and neck region near the tooth Paraesthesia - esp if near neurovascular structures eg - mental foramen Cellulitis - may close the ipsilateral eye Trismus Ophthalmologist symptoms - blurred vision, diplopia Extremely rare - airway obstruction due to swelling
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How should hypochlorite accidents be managed?
Explain to the pt what’s happened and reassure Immediately irrigate canal with saline Dress the tooth with CaOH and a temp filling Pain management - LA and analgesics Swelling management - NSAIDs, consider ABs if tooth grossly infected (Amoxicillin 250-500mg TTD) Warn pt swelling may not peak until 5-7 days afterwards Most cases resolve within 2 weeks - more complex can last 1-2 months
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How should you follow up a hypochlorite accident?
Make a telephone follow up call same day or that evening Continue daily phone calls for first few days - then move to once or twice a week until happy things have resolved Once settled, consider obturation of the tooth Refer to OMFS should be considered if you are concerned