Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Endodontic Treatment Prediction.

The necessary condition for successful endodontic treatment is the precise mapping of the shape of dental cavities. The aim of this work has been an elaboration and verification of the possibility of using three-dimensional (3D) spin echo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques in dentistry. Six extracted molar teeth were used for measurements without additional preparation and after endodontic preparation. MRI measurements were carried out on a 4.7 T research MRI system equipped with Maran DRX console. Figures show 3D images of outer surface and inner space of the teeth. The sizes of the presented volumes were calculated. Internal tooth volumes were determined before and after endodontic treatment; total tooth volumes were also measured. Because of the removal of pulp and treatment of chambers and root canals, their volumes increased. Before treatment, the internal tooth volume averaged 55.59 mm. After pulp removal and internal tooth treatment, the inner volumes grew from 55.59 mm to a mean value of 125.46 mm. Results regarding internal teeth volumes before pulp removal and treatment are more scattered (variation coefficient 26.49%), whereas pulp removal and treatment significantly improve uniformity of results, which is shown by a very small value of the variation coefficient (6.85%). As a result of pulp removal and treatment of the internal tooth, the amount of hard tooth tissue is decreased from 854.40 mm to an average level of 784.53 mm. These results indicate the possibility of employing the MRI technique for 3D mapping of the outer topography and inner structure of root canals. Indication of the measuring parameters may facilitate planning of endodontic procedures.