CBCT Scan: Root Fracture Case Study

Please enjoy our latest CBCT case. This patient was sent to our office for a second opinion of tooth 3, the first maxillary molar. The patient has had off and on pain in this area for about one year. His dental history disclosed that he hit his head when he slipped and fell on ice in the winter about a year ago. The tooth was sensitive to percussion and palpation. The 2-D radiograph image was vague so a CT was taken of this area to determine the extent of damage to the tooth.

After a thorough investigation of all the roots, it was noted that only the mesial bucal root was damaged. The fall on ice resulted in an accidental root amputation. The remaining other two roots appeared to be intact. The treatment for this tooth could be an extraction of the tooth. Another option may be to remove the damaged root, then threat the remaining roots endodontically followed by a crown. The benefit of the CT in this case not only to determine the cause of his pain but to suggest a treatment plan for the tooth.

We are proud to share our cases with you. If you have concerns about a tooth that is questionable, please give us a call. We are looking forward to serving you.

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CBCT Scan: Maxillary Resorption by Tooth #1

Despite years of training and practice, it has been difficult to correctly diagnose what can barely be seen on 2-D intra-oral images. The Kodak 3D extra oral imaging (CBCT) shows the whole picture from the axial, coronal, and sagittal views. CBCT provides additional information that is essential when used in Endodontics for finding evidence of resorption . This patient was diagnosed with pain in the maxillary right area. The patient was sent to this office for root canal therapy on tooth 2. Ordinary radiographs did not show a clear picture of the area. A CT was taken and the results show resorption of tooth #2 by tooth #1. Clearly the prognosis is poor. CT scans are recommended to diagnose the relationship of tooth #1 in relationship to tooth #2. If you're in any doubts as to the prognosis of your patient's tooth, please let us help you save a tooth.

Laser Endodontics LLC - Mary Ann Choby, DMD, MS

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