Information obtained from careful observation of stainless-steel hand file deformation can be a critical step in efficient root canal space debridement. Secondary and tertiary canal curvatures that occur most often in the proximal view have been reported in the literature. Except in teeth that are clinically rotated, there is currently no method for observing the proximal view of root canal systems. This article presents a simple clinical procedure for detecting the three-dimensional anatomy of root canal spaces. We refer to the procedure as file molding.
A case is presented in which a horizontal root fracture of the mesiobuccal root of a maxillary first molar was diagnosed as the source of a patient's chronic pain. Horizontal root fractures are rare in posterior teeth. The source of the fracture was determined to be trauma from access or curettage during two Caldwell-Luc sinus procedures. A detailed history and endodontic retreatment led to the diagnosis. A mesiobuccal root resection resolved the chronic pain.
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