Análise da morfologia interna de incisivos revelados pela microtomografia computadorizada

Abstract

The root canal system presents complex internal anatomy, requiring adequate knowledge of the same for successful endodontic treatment. Thus, the professional must have full knowledge of both the internal anatomy of the teeth and the anatomical variations that are most common in daily practice. The objective of this study was to evaluate the internal morphology of the incisor teeth using computerized microtomography (micro-CT) images. Eighty-nine incisors extracted from humans were scanned by means of micro-CT. 89.9% of the canals showed a single main root canal (Vertucci type I), followed by type II (6.7%) and type III (3.4%). Only 5.6% of the specimens had lateral canals, 4.5% and 1.1% in the apical and middle third, respectively. No lateral canals were observed in the cervical third. Only 1.1% of the sample showed the presence of apical delta. The volume and surface area were 31,80 ± 10,50 mm3 and 90,58 ± 18,58 mm2, respectively. The SMI indicated that the geometry of the root canal resembles a cylinder (SMI = 2.02 ± 0 , 49). The root length measured from enamel cement junction (ECJ) to the apical foramen ranged from 11.76 to 20.84 mm (15.89 ± 1.96 mm) and the mean number of apical foramina present 4 mm below the apex was 1.10 ± 0, 45. The shape of the root canal embouchure at the most prevalent ECJ level was circular (41.6%) followed by oval (28.1%). In the transversal sections 1 mm of the apex, 73% were classified as oval, 20.2% as long oval and 6.7% as flat channels. Although the incisor teeth are monoradicular, there are internal anatomical variations that may offer a high degree of technical complexity, making it difficult for endodontic treatment of these elements, which, if not well known by dentists, may result in treatment failure.