Navigating Precision: A Comprehensive Review of Guided Endodontics

Abstract

Root canal treatment aims to cure or prevent apical periodontitis by disinfecting the root canal system. In teeth with severe pulp canal calcification (PCC), accessing the root canal and preparing the cavity can be challenging, time-consuming, and prone to iatrogenic damage, such as tooth structure loss or root perforation. This increases the risk of fractures, worsening the tooth’s prognosis. Guided endodontics (GE) uses 3D imaging (CBCT) and surface scans for virtual planning of minimally invasive access preparation. A guided bur system helps locate the root canal orifice, reducing invasiveness. CBCT, widely used for diagnostics, should adhere to the ALARA principle to minimize radiation. It is useful when conventional radiographs are inadequate and may aid GE planning in teeth with PCC. Although GE is primarily used in anterior teeth, few studies have explored its accuracy in posterior teeth.