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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Laser Endodontics LLC - Mary Ann Choby, DMD, MS

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