Gutta-Percha
Epoxy Resins
Root Canal Therapy
Root Canal Filling Materials
Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy
Descemet Membrane
Corneal Transplantation
Visual Acuity
The use of gutta-percha point to locate the origin of facial sinus. (1/121)
Infection from the wisdom teeth usually causes severe swelling at the region of the angle and body of the mandible. Occasionally, it tracts outward to form a cervicofacial sinus. This paper demonstrates the use of gutta-percha point to locate the origin of a cervicofacial sinus due to an asymptomatic impacted wisdom tooth. The advantage of using gutta-percha point is discussed. (+info)The outcome of root canal treatment. A retrospective study within the armed forces (Royal Air Force). (2/121)
OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the outcome of conventional root canal treatment in a general practice setting within the Royal Air Force dental service. Design Retrospective review. METHODS: Teeth that had been root-filled for 12 months or more by Royal Air Force dental practitioners in patients attending a large Royal Air Force dental centre were included in the study. Following clinical and radiographic review the root fillings were classified as 'definitely successful', 'probably successful' or 'failed' The effect on success of several variables on the outcome was investigated. RESULTS: Out of a total of 406 teeth, 59% were maxillary teeth and 41% were mandibular teeth. Sixty-nine per cent of the total sample had pre-existing periapical radiolucencies. Cold lateral condensation of gutta-percha was the most widely used filling technique (64% of all cases). Fifty per cent of the teeth had root fillings within 2 mm of the radiographic apex, 32% were greater than 2 mm from the radiographic apex and 18% were overfilled. Cold lateral condensation was the most successful (92% overall) filling technique. Maxillary anterior teeth had a better success rate (96%) than other tooth types. Teeth with pre-existing periapical radiolucencies had a higher success rate (87%) than those cases where there was no pre-existing periapical radiolucency (80%). Root fillings that were less than 2 mm from the radiographic apex of the tooth had a higher success rate (88% overall) than those that were greater than 2 mm from the radiographic apex (77% overall). Of the 406 cases, 57% (n=231) were classified as definitely successful, 28% (n=114) were classified as probably successful and 15% (n=62) were classified as failures. Thus, the overall success rate combining definitely successful and probably successful root fillings was 85% (n=344). CONCLUSIONS: Root fillings placed using cold lateral condensation of gutta-percha to within 2 mm of the radiographic apex of the tooth were associated with the best outcome. (+info)In vitro evaluation of different chemical agents for the decontamination of gutta-percha cones. (3/121)
This study evaluated the effectiveness of three disinfectants used in Dentistry for decontamination of gutta-percha cones. Sixty gutta-percha cones were contaminated with standardized pure cultures of five species of microorganisms (Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Candida albicans ATCC CBS-ICB/USP 562, Bacillus subtilis spores ATCC 6633 and Streptococcus mutans ATCC 25175). The cones were treated with 10% polyvinylpyrrolidone-iodine aqueous solution (PVP-I; Groups 1 and 2), 5.25% aqueous sodium hypochlorite (Groups 3 and 4) and paraformaldehyde tablets (Group 5). All chemical agents were efficient for the cold sterilization of gutta-percha cones in short time periods. (+info)Histopathological reactions of calcium phosphate cement. (4/121)
Calcium phosphate cement (CPC) consisting of Ca4 (PO4)2O and CaHPO4 (2H2O) was recently developed. This study evaluated in vivo aspects of CPC and CPC mixtures compared to those of commercial hydroxyapatite (HP) and several endodontic materials: Grossman's cement (GC), calcium hydroxide-iodine paste (CHP) and gutta-percha plate (GP). Biocompatibility of subcutaneous implants in Donryu rats was evaluated after one month. Results showed very slight inflammatory reactions from CPC, CPC mixtures and HP. The materials were surrounded by thin fibrous connective tissues with a small number of lymphocytes and plasma cells. Severe inflammatory reactions were provoked by GC. Granulation tissues induced by CHP resembled those of pseudoxanthomatous granuloma. The GP material was encapsulated by relatively thick fibrous connective tissues with little inflammatory reactions. (+info)Analysis of the film thickness of a root canal sealer following three obturation techniques. (5/121)
The aim of this study was to obtain a quantitative analysis of the film thickness of a root canal sealer formed after filling by three different techniques. Thirty human maxillary incisors were selected and access cavities were prepared using high-speed diamond stones and water spray. A size #15 K-Flexofile was introduced in the canal of each specimen until it was seen just at the apical foramen. The working length was determined to be 1 mm short of that position and the canals were prepared to an apical size of #45 K-Flexofile. Copious irrigation with 5.25% NaOCl (sodium hypochlorite) was used during and after instrumentation. The samples were divided into three groups and obturated as follows: G1 - lateral condensation, G2 - lateral condensation with an accessory cone, and G3 - continuous wave of condensation. The samples were evaluated in the cervical, middle and apical thirds. The film thickness of the root canal sealer was measured through a microscopic evaluation. Statistical analysis was obtained using the Wilcox test. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between G3 and G1, G3 and G2 (p < 0.05). In general, the lowest film thickness was observed in the continuous wave of condensation (G3). Lateral condensation with an accessory cone (G2) and lateral condensation (G1) demonstrated poorer results in this study, showing a higher film thickness. The small film thickness of the sealer obtained by the continuous wave of condensation technique may increase the clinical performance of this technique. (+info)Inferior alveolar nerve injury caused by thermoplastic gutta-percha overextension. (6/121)
Injuries to the inferior alveolar nerve following trauma resulting in a mandibular fracture are well documented and are a well-known risk when surgical procedures are planned for the mandible in the region of the inferior alveolar canal. Such injuries are relatively rare following endodontic therapy. This article reports a case of combined thermal and pressure injury to the inferior alveolar nerve, reviews the pathogenesis of such an injury and makes suggestions for its management. (+info)Apical seal of root canals with gutta-percha points with calcium hydroxide. (7/121)
The objective of this research was to determine if gutta-percha points with calcium hydroxide [Ca(OH)2] improve the apical seal after root canal filling and if the master point does it alone. Human single recently extracted teeth were biomechanically prepared and the root canals filled by the lateral condensation technique with ZOE and gutta-percha points, with or without calcium hydroxide. The teeth were placed into a 2% methylene blue solution in a vacuum environment for 24 h after which they were processed for stereomicroscope evaluation. Better results were observed with the teeth filled with gutta-percha points with calcium hydroxide (p=0.01). We conclude that these new points make a better apical seal and that these results can also be obtained with the calcium hydroxide master point associated with regular ones (p=0.05). (+info)Influence of Er:YAG laser irradiation on apical sealing of four different sealers. (8/121)
The sealing of the root canal system is of fundamental importance for successful endodontic treatment. To obtain an adequate apical seal, many factors must be considered such as the presence of smear layer and the sealer applied. After canal preparation, this layer must be removed because it prevents close contact between the dentinal walls and the sealing material. The goal of this study was to evaluate the sealing ability of four different sealers after smear layer removal with either 17% EDTA-T irrigation or Er:YAG laser irradiation of 46 teeth. The canals were sealed with four different sealers: Sealapex, Ketac Endo, AH Plus and N-Rickert. The method for smear layer removal did not influence apical sealing. AH Plus and N-Rickert allowed less dye leakage when compared to Sealapex and Ketac Endo. (+info)Gutta-Percha is defined in the medical field as a naturally occurring rubber derived from the sap of the Palaquium gutta tree, which is native to Malaysia. It has been historically used in various medical and dental applications due to its unique properties such as being malleable yet durable when heated, and remaining stable at room temperature.
In dentistry, gutta-percha is commonly utilized as a root canal filling material, as it can be easily shaped and compacted into the root canal space to seal off the tooth from bacteria and other infectious agents. It is often used in combination with a sealer cement to ensure a proper seal and prevent reinfection of the tooth.
Overall, gutta-percha is a valuable material in medical and dental applications due to its unique properties and versatility.
Epoxy resins are a type of synthetic polymer that are created through the reaction of an epoxide compound with a hardening agent or curing agent. These materials are known for their strong adhesive properties, chemical resistance, and durability. They are commonly used in coatings, adhesives, and composite materials for various industrial, commercial, and consumer applications.
In medical contexts, epoxy resins may be used to create durable and reliable components for medical devices or equipment. For example, they might be used to make housings for medical instruments, or to bond together different parts of a medical device. However, it's worth noting that epoxy resins are not typically used in direct contact with the body or as part of medical treatments.
It's important to note that while epoxy resins have many useful properties, they can also release potentially harmful chemicals during their production and disposal. As such, appropriate safety precautions should be taken when working with these materials.
Root canal therapy, also known as endodontic treatment, is a dental procedure that involves the removal of infected or damaged pulp tissue from within a tooth's root canal system. The root canal system is a series of narrow channels that run from the center of the tooth (pulp chamber) down to the tip of the tooth roots, containing nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues.
During the procedure, the dentist or endodontist will gain access to the pulp chamber, carefully clean and shape the root canals using specialized instruments, and then fill and seal them with a rubber-like material called gutta-percha. This helps prevent reinfection and preserves the structural integrity of the tooth. In many cases, a crown or other restoration is placed over the treated tooth to protect it and restore its function and appearance.
Root canal therapy is typically recommended when the pulp tissue becomes inflamed or infected due to deep decay, repeated dental procedures, cracks, or chips in the teeth. The goal of this treatment is to alleviate pain, preserve natural tooth structure, and prevent the need for extraction.
Root canal filling materials are substances used to fill and seal the root canal system inside a tooth following root canal treatment. The main goal of using these materials is to prevent reinfection, provide structural support to the weakened tooth, and restore its functionality.
Commonly used root canal filling materials include:
1. Gutta-percha: A rubber-like material derived from the sap of the Palaquium gutta tree. It is widely used as the primary filling material due to its biocompatibility, malleability, and ability to be compacted into the root canal space. Gutta-percha points or cones are typically used in conjunction with a sealer for optimal adaptation and seal.
2. Sealers: These are adhesive materials that help bond gutta-percha to dentin walls and improve the seal between the filling material and root canal walls. Some commonly used sealers include zinc oxide eugenol, calcium hydroxide-based sealers, and resin-based sealers.
3. Silver points: These are silver cones with a sharp tip that can be inserted into the root canal space as an alternative to gutta-percha. However, their use has declined due to concerns about corrosion and potential tooth discoloration.
4. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA): A biocompatible cement composed primarily of Portland cement, bismuth oxide, and other additives. MTA is used for various applications in endodontics, including root-end filling, perforation repair, and apexification. It has excellent sealing ability, antibacterial properties, and promotes hard tissue formation.
5. Bioceramics: These are advanced materials with similar properties to MTA but with improved handling characteristics and setting times. They include materials like Bioaggregate, EndoSequence BC Sealer, and iRoot SP.
6. Thermoplasticized gutta-percha: This technique involves heating and softening gutta-percha using a specialized device called a thermomechanical compactor or an oven. The softened gutta-percha is then injected into the root canal space, providing better adaptation to the root canal walls and creating a more uniform seal.
The choice of materials depends on various factors, including the clinical situation, patient's needs, and practitioner's preference.
Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy is a medical condition that affects the eye's cornea. It is a slowly progressing disorder that causes the endothelium, a thin layer of cells lining the inner surface of the cornea, to deteriorate and eventually fail to function properly. This results in swelling of the cornea, leading to cloudy vision, distorted vision, and sensitivity to light.
The condition is typically inherited and tends to affect both eyes. It is more common in women than in men and usually becomes apparent after the age of 50. There is no cure for Fuchs' Endothelial Dystrophy, but treatments such as corneal transplantation can help improve vision and alleviate symptoms.
The Descemet membrane is the thin, transparent basement membrane that is produced by the corneal endothelial cells. It is located between the corneal stroma and the corneal endothelium, which is the innermost layer of the cornea. The Descemet membrane provides structural support for the corneal endothelium and helps to maintain the proper hydration and clarity of the cornea. It is named after the French physician Jean Descemet, who first described it in 1752.
Corneal transplantation, also known as keratoplasty, is a surgical procedure in which all or part of a damaged or diseased cornea is replaced with healthy corneal tissue from a deceased donor. The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface at the front of the eye that plays an important role in focusing vision. When it becomes cloudy or misshapen due to injury, infection, or inherited conditions, vision can become significantly impaired.
During the procedure, the surgeon carefully removes a circular section of the damaged cornea and replaces it with a similarly sized piece of donor tissue. The new cornea is then stitched into place using very fine sutures that are typically removed several months after surgery.
Corneal transplantation has a high success rate, with more than 90% of procedures resulting in improved vision. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including infection, rejection of the donor tissue, and bleeding. Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor for any signs of complications and ensure proper healing.
Visual acuity is a measure of the sharpness or clarity of vision. It is usually tested by reading an eye chart from a specific distance, such as 20 feet (6 meters). The standard eye chart used for this purpose is called the Snellen chart, which contains rows of letters that decrease in size as you read down the chart.
Visual acuity is typically expressed as a fraction, with the numerator representing the testing distance and the denominator indicating the smallest line of type that can be read clearly. For example, if a person can read the line on the eye chart that corresponds to a visual acuity of 20/20, it means they have normal vision at 20 feet. If their visual acuity is 20/40, it means they must be as close as 20 feet to see what someone with normal vision can see at 40 feet.
It's important to note that visual acuity is just one aspect of overall vision and does not necessarily reflect other important factors such as peripheral vision, depth perception, color vision, or contrast sensitivity.