Enhanced visualization of the root canal morphology using a chitosan-based endo-radiopaque solution.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of ionic and non-ionic-based contrast media ( study) and the combinatorial effect of chitosan-based endo-radiopaque solution (CERS) ( study) for visualization of the root canal anatomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

o study (120 teeth): The root canal of maxillary premolars and molars ( group 1 and 2 respectively, = 60 each) were analyzed using 4 different contrast media (subgroups: Omnipaque 350, Iopamidol, Xenetix 350, and Urografin 76; = 15 each) in combination with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). Based on the results of the study, study (80 teeth) was done to compare Xenetix 350 + 5.25% NaOCl with CERS ( group 1 and 2 respectively, = 40 each) on maxillary and mandibular premolars and molars. Two endodontists used radiovisiography to assess the depth of ingress and identify the aberrant root anatomy after access cavity preparation, and after initial cleaning and shaping of canals. Kruskal-Wallis test was used for comparison ( < 0.05), and Wilcoxon signed-rank test and Mann-Whitney test for analysis ( < 0.01).

RESULTS

study, Xenetix 350 + 5.25% NaOCl facilitated a significant higher visualization ( < 0.05). For study, CERS had a statistically significant depth of ingress ( < 0.01), and was efficient in identifying the aberrant root canal anatomy of premolars and molars.

CONCLUSIONS

CERS facilitates better visualization of the root canal anatomy of human premolars and molars.