Guided endodontic access of calcified root canal by laser melting templates

OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to treat calcified root canal and assess the accuracy of guided endodontics using laser melting templates. METHODS Two cases with calcified anterior teeth were treated with laser melting templates. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used to scan the maxillary teeth of patients before surgery to establish the root canal system model. The maxillary impression of the patient was made and it was scanned by a 3D scanner. The CBCT scans were matched with surface scans of plaster model. Mimics 19.0 and 3-matic 11.0 software were used to design the virtual planning to access cavities. The templates were produced by laser melting 3D printing. Access cavity was prepared under the guidance of laser melting template. Then the deviations of planned and prepared cavities in three dimensions and angle were measured. RESULTS The two teeth obtained satisfactory results. The first case had a angle deviation of 1.77°, a drilling base deviation of 0.403-0.497 mm, and a tip of 0.433-0.537 mm. The second case had a angle deviation of 3.26°, a drill base deviation of 0.18-0.347 mm, and a tip of 0.310-0.463 mm. CONCLUSIONS Laser melting template-guided endodontics is an effective technique for the treatment of calcified root canal and can be used as a new strategy for the treatment of calcified canal.