CBCT uses in clinical endodontics: the effect of CBCT on the ability to locate MB2 canals in maxillary molars

Abstract Aim To determine whether a CBCT volume can aid in the location of MB 2 canals in maxillary molars. Methodology This prospective clinical study involved 50 patients that needed RCT on a maxillary molar. The teeth where the MB 2 was located upon access with the dental operating microscope received routine root canal treatment, and teeth where MB 2 was not located had a CBCT volume made after instrumenting the located canals. At the second appointment, the clinician used the aid of the CBCT volume and troughing to attempt to locate MB 2. Results The clinicians located MB 2 upon initial access in 70% ( n = 35) of teeth. In the remaining 15 teeth, CBCT and troughing located MB 2 53% of the time in that group (8/15 teeth). Overall, MB 2 was located in 86% of the 50 first and second maxillary molars (maxillary first molars 90% and maxillary second molars 73%). A total of 15 CBCT volumes were made, and of these teeth, 33% of MB 2 canals (5/15 teeth) were visualized on the CBCT volume. Conclusions This prospective clinical study showed that the effectiveness of using CBCT to locate additional MB 2 canals in maxillary molars appears limited. The use of the dental operating microscope in conjunction with selective troughing and CBCT imaging allowed clinicians to locate 90% (maxillary first molars) and 73% (maxillary second molars) of MB 2 canals.