IMAGING IN ENDODONTICS

Even with the best intentions and refined technique, images acquire during conventional intra-oral radiographs reveal information in two-dimensions only (height and width) limiting the valuable information in the third dimension i.e. depth of the lesion. The inherent problems of positioning image receptors in the ideal position in relation to the anatomical area of interest, anatomic noise, under or over- estimation of actual healing or failure of endodontic treatment limits the assessment of true nature of the endodontic lesions. In such situations, advanced diagnostic aids like CBCT ,CT,micro CT arevery helpful in visualizing the lesion three dimensionally. Especially CBCT technology is improving at rapid pace because of improved diagnostic data provided and therefore appropriate decision making for the management of complex endodontic problems. So, endodontic cases should be judged individually and CBCT should be considered in situation where information from conventional imaging systems does not yield an adequate amount of information to allow appropriate management of endodontic probelm.