Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Edited by
Hany M. A. Ahmed
Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, University of
Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Paul M. H. Dummer
School of Dentistry, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff
University, Cardiff, UK
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v
Contents
Preface xviii
Acknowledgements xix
Editors’ Biography xx
List of Contributors xxi
About the Companion Website xxv
2.1 Introduction 51
2.2 Regenerative Endodontics 53
2.3 The Role of Dentine in Pulpar Repair and Regeneration 53
2.4 Infection, Inflammation, and Stem Cells Interaction in Pulp Regeneration 54
2.4.1 Immune Response 54
2.4.2 Inflammation and Regeneration 56
2.4.3 Opportunities for Clinical Translation 56
2.5 Regenerative Endodontic Procedures (REPs) 57
2.5.1 Cell-Homing 57
2.5.2 Cell-based Therapies 62
2.6 Conclusion 65
References 66
Index 794
Preface
Over the last few decades, there has been a substantial increase in the body of knowledge
within the field of endodontology. This has been accompanied by a global increase in the
awareness of clinicians, scientists, and the general public to the benefits of endodontic thera-
pies and the ability of the dental profession to save teeth that in the past may have been
extracted. We are delighted and honoured to contribute to the ever-increasing pool of knowl-
edge in endodontology by presenting the first edition of our new book, Endodontic Advances
and Evidence-Based Clinical Guidelines.
The book is divided into four sections:
Advances in knowledge: This section focuses on the characterisation of root and canal anatomy
using advanced diagnostic techniques, the bioactive properties of dentine and molecular
advances in pulp regeneration, microbial biofilms in the root canal system, pulp and perio-
dontal diseases, root resorption, minimally invasive endodontics, and technology-enhanced
education.
Advances in materials and technology: This section covers advances in computed tomography
imaging devices and techniques, working length determination, advances in materials and
techniques for microbial control, and nickel titanium metallurgy together with recent auto-
mated motions and advances in calcium silicate-based cements.
Advances in clinical management: This section includes current trends for vital pulp therapies,
an update for the detection, negotiation, and management of calcified and curved root canals,
management of fractured instruments, repair of perforation defects, removal of root canal fill-
ing materials, restoration of root filled teeth, management of coronal discolouration, surgical
endodontics, management of endo-perio lesions, and alternatives to root canal treatment.
Evidence-based clinical guidelines: This section includes guidelines for the use of cone-beam
computed tomography in endodontics, endodontic emergencies and use of systemic antibiot-
ics, regenerative endodontic procedures, and management of endodontic complications asso-
ciated with traumatic injuries.
Recent advances in knowledge in the key areas of the specialty and their links to evidence-
based clinical guidelines have allowed the latest scientific evidence to be integrated with treat-
ment guidelines to address the needs of patients. This new and innovative format will enable
undergraduate and postgraduate students, general dental practitioners, specialists, and clini-
cal and non-clinical scientists to update their knowledge and engage with advanced treatment
modalities that will have a significant, positive impact on patient management and treatment
outcomes. Each chapter is accompanied by a large number of high-quality illustrations and
clinical cases that will allow the reader to immediately understand current directions in
research, the underlying concepts and new trends in education, and clinical techniques. The
book is provided in print and eBook formats, and there is a companion website to enable the
reader to access and browse the illustrations in a convenient manner.
Hany M. A. Ahmed
Paul M. H. Dummer
xix
Acknowledgements
The editors would like to thank Wiley for supporting the concept of this new book and over-
seeing its production. Special thanks to Loan Nguyen, Susan Engelken, Erica Judisch, Tanya
McMullin, Christy Michael and Amy Kopperude.
The editors gratefully acknowledge the contributing authors for sharing their valuable
knowledge and experience.
We are also grateful to Muhammad Fairos Bin Jenal, Artist, Faculty of Dentistry, University
of Malaya, for the drawings included in several chapters.
We would like to acknowledge and thank our families for their encouragement and con-
tinuous support along the way!
xx
Editors’ Biography
Dr. Hany M. A. Ahmed, BDS, HDD, PhD, FICD, MDTFEd (RCSEd), FPFA, FADI
Dr. Ahmed graduated with a BDS (2002) from the Faculty of Dentistry, Ain Shams University,
Egypt. In 2006, he obtained a Higher Dental Diploma degree in endodontics, followed by a PhD
from the School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia. He was awarded for his research
including the IADR (SE Asian division) for the best laboratory research, in addition to the best
publication award (2020), with a research group in Turkey, from the Journal of Endodontics.
Dr. Ahmed has had work published in over 100 publications. In 2012, he introduced a new
classification for endo-perio lesions, and in 2017, with experts in the field, he introduced a
new system for classifying root and canal morphology, accessory canals, and dental anoma-
lies, in addition to the PROUD-2020 reporting guidelines. He is an international consultant for
research projects in several countries, and a key opinion leader for dental companies.
Currently, Dr. Ahmed is a senior lecturer in endodontics at the Faculty of Dentistry,
University of Malaya (UM). He leads a number of grants related to root canal anatomy and
endodontic bio-materials. In 2019, he was awarded the excellent service certificate from UM.
Dr. Ahmed is also a registered specialist in endodontics with the Egyptian Dental Syndicate
(2012-up to date).
Recently, Dr. Ahmed was awarded membership from the Faculty of Dental Trainers, Royal
College of Surgeons (Edinburgh). He is a fellow of the International College of Dentists,
Academy of Dentistry International, and Pierre Fauchard Academy.
Dr. Ahmed is a scientific reviewer and editorial board member for several journals. He is
also the Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the European Endodontic Journal.
Emeritus Professor Paul M. H. Dummer BDS, MScD, PhD, DDSc, FDS (RCSEd)
Professor Dummer graduated from the School of Dentistry, Welsh National School of Medicine,
UK in 1973 with a bachelor’s degree in dental surgery and completed his MScD in 1980 and PhD
in 1987 by research. He was awarded a senior doctorate in dental science (DDSc) in 2002 on the
basis of his research record in endodontology. He has published over 300 original scientific
articles in high-impact peer-reviewed journals and written several chapters in textbooks.
Professor Dummer was a professor of restorative dentistry at the School of Dentistry, Cardiff
University, UK from 1995 to 2017 and vice dean between 2005 and 2011. He was dean for
Education and Students in the College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University
from 2011 to 2017, with overall responsibility for the quality of education in seven schools,
including medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, optometry, psychology, and biosciences. He
was director of the 3-year master’s programme in clinical dentistry (endodontology) at Cardiff
from 2010 to 2017. He retired in 2017 and is now an emeritus professor at Cardiff University.
Paul Dummer was a clinical consultant in restorative dentistry with the Cardiff & Vale
University Health Board (2000–2017) and a registered specialist in restorative dentistry and
endodontics with the UK General Dental Council (2000–2017).
Paul Dummer was Editor-in-Chief of the International Endodontic Journal (1999–2021) and
the president of the European Society of Endodontology (2020–2021), having been interim
chief executive officer (2017–2019) and secretary (2009–2017).
xxi
List of Contributors
Markus Haapasalo
Paul M. H. Dummer
Division of Endodontics
School of Dentistry
Faculty of Dentistry
College of Biomedical and Life Sciences
University of British Columbia
Cardiff University
Vancouver, Canada
Cardiff, United Kingdom
Ahmed A. R. Hashem
Henry F. Duncan
Department of Endodontics
Division of Restorative Dentistry &
Faculty of Dentistry
Periodontology
List of Contributors xxiii
http://www.wiley.com/go/ahmed/endodontics
Part I
Advances in Knowledge
3
Summary
Knowledge of root and canal morphology is a prerequisite for successful endodontic treatment.
The external and internal morphological features of roots are variable and complex. Current
advancements in non-destructive digital image systems, such as cone-beam computed tomogra-
phy (CBCT) and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), allow detailed qualitative and quanti-
tative analyses of root and canal morphology. This growing body of knowledge has paved the way
for revising several historical concepts and introducing new perspectives for more accurate
descriptions of root and canal morphology in teaching, research, and clinical practice. This chapter
aims to provide an update on the application of a new system for classifying root and canal mor-
phology, accessory canals, and anomalies, to discuss anatomy of the root apex and apical foramen,
and to present the growing body of knowledge on root and canal morphology in all tooth types.
1.1 Introduction
Endodontic Advances and Evidence-Based Clinical Guidelines, First Edition. Edited by Hany M. A. Ahmed
and Paul M. H. Dummer.
© 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd. Published 2022 by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Companion Website: www.wiley.com/go/ahmed/endodontics
4 Advances in Knowledge
Figure 1.1 Common methods for the study of root and canal morphology in extracted teeth. (a) Staining and clearing. (b) 2D radiographic
imaging with different views. (c) Stereomicroscopy. (d) Scanning electron microscopy. (e) Cone beam computed tomography.
(f) Micro-computed tomography.
Classifications play a central role in science, where they are used not only as a way to organise
knowledge but also as a powerful tool for accurately defining characteristic features of a given
subject [19]. Data generated from the classical work of Hess and Zurcher [2] to the more
recent studies demonstrate that the ever-expanding knowledge on this subject required the
creation of a classification system for defining root canal configurations. The Vertucci classifi-
cation [3] is the most commonly used system for categorising canal morphology; however,
several reports identified considerable deficiencies in this system [10, 13]. In this section,
these deficiencies are discussed and a new coding system for classifying root canal morphol-
ogy, accessory canals, and anomalies is described.
Tooth, Root, and Canal Anatomy 5
Figure 1.2 Common methods for the study of the root and canal morphology in clinical practice. (a) 2D radiographic imaging. (b, c) Clinical
identification using magnification, exploration, and troughing. (d) Identification using hand files. (e, f) Cone beam computed tomography in
mandibular (e) and maxillary (f) teeth.
Figure 1.3 Common classifications for root canal configurations. (a) Weine classification from left to right [Type I (1), II (2-1), III (2), IV (1-2)];
(b) Vertucci classification from left to right [Type I (1), II (2-1), III (1-2-1), IV (2), V (1-2), VI (2-1-2), VII (1-2-1-2), VIII (3)]; (c) Supplemental
configurations from Vertucci classification from left to right [Type IX (1-3), X (1-2-3-2), XI (1-2-3-4), XII (2-3-1), XIII (1-2-1-3), XIV (4-2), XV
(3-2), XVI (2-3), XVII (1-3-1), XVIII (3-1), IXX (2-1-2-1), XX (4), XXI (4-1), XXII (5-4), XXIII (3-4)].
To overcome this deficiency in Vertucci’s classification, the number of roots has been described
in various case reports and studies alongside the Vertucci classification but with no details on
their location, and this is also considered insufficient. For instance, double-rooted anterior teeth
can exist in two forms (mesial and distal, or buccal and palatal/lingual) [27]. Three-rooted max-
illary premolars can have two forms (i.e. two buccal roots and one palatal root or one buccal root
and two palatal roots) [8, 10, 28]. Therefore, it is not only important to present the number of
roots of a given tooth but also to describe the location of these roots as this detailed description
of the roots has clinical implications at different phases of treatment.
Figure 1.4 Application of the Vertucci classification in teeth with different root canal configuration types. Teeth with 2 separate root canals
in (a) single-rooted, and (b) double-rooted maxillary premolars are classified as Type IV. Teeth with root canal configuration (1-2) in
(c) single-rooted, and (d) double-rooted mandibular premolars are classified as Type V. Vertucci Type VIII can be presented in (e) double-
rooted and (f) three-rooted maxillary premolars with three root canals.
canals in the same root or between vascular elements in tissues. Classifying the root canals using
the Vertucci classification could vary and become more complicated if inter-canal communica-
tions are considered as a part of the main canal configuration (Figure 1.5). Since the criteria for
defining inter-canal communications were not mentioned [3] (Figure 1.5), the confusion is more
obvious when micro-CT studies continue to report many canal configurations as ‘non-classifiable’
when using the Vertucci classification [31, 32]. This may well be the case for some ‘complicated’
canal configurations but is misleading for many other types because such studies have always
included transverse canal anastomosis as a part of the main canal configuration [31, 32]. At the
same time, several CBCT studies either have not considered transverse canals as a part of the root
canal configuration or did not mention the criteria of transverse canals if they are not meant to be
considered [6, 33–35]. As a consequence of this variation in interpretation, comparison amongst
studies creates conflicts not only because of the different methods used to prepare the specimens
but also because the same classification system is being used in a different manner.
The identification of a transverse canal anastomosis separately from the canal configuration
is a concern because they have clinical implications during chemo-mechanical instrumenta-
tion, canal filling, and root-end cavity preparation and filling [36–38]. In addition, transverse
canal anastomosis may communicate with the external root surface and be a pathway for
microorganisms and their associated toxins into the lateral periodontal and periapical tissues,
thus affecting clinical outcomes [39].
In addition, there is confusion with regards to apical canal bifurcations – when it is a part of
the configuration and when it is considered as an accessory canal. Similar confusion exists for
apical root bifurcations whether a tooth with a bifid/small double root apex is considered as a
single- or double-rooted tooth, which is discussed later in this chapter.
1.2.2 Introduction to the New Coding System for Root and Canal Morphology
Recently, an alternative coding system for classifying root and canal morphology was pro-
posed, which provides detailed information on tooth notation, number of roots and root canal
configuration [10]. The new system aims to provide a simple, accurate, and practical way for
students/trainees, clinicians, and researchers to classify root and root canal configurations
identified using any diagnostic method regardless of their accuracy and reliability.
1.2.2.1 Terminology
1.2.2.2 Classification
The new classification includes codes for three separate components: the tooth number, the
number of roots, and the root canal configuration.
Figure 1.6 Types of accessory canals – Patent, blind, loop and delta.
10 Advances in Knowledge
from the orifice(s) (O), through the canal (C), and to the foramen (foramina) (F). The new system
for root and canal morphology defines the root canal configuration with a start (root canal ori-
fice) passing through the canal and ends at the apical foramen. Figures 1.7–1.9 show the applica-
tion of the new system on different teeth with a range of root canal configurations. On some
occasions, the root bifurcation in double/multi-rooted teeth is located in the middle or apical
third, in which a common canal is present coronally that starts from the level of CEJ, similar to
single-rooted teeth. This common canal is written as a superscript before describing the canal
configuration for each of the roots (Figure 1.10). Recently, the new coding system has been
refined for application in the primary dentition [43].
● When the tooth has two or more different developmental anomalies, a comma (,) should be
added between the initial letters of each anomaly (A1, A2). Thus, (DI, RD) describes a tooth
with both a dens invaginatus (DI) and a root dilaceration (RD).
● A slash (/) should be used in fused teeth, for example, fusion of one tooth to a supernumer-
ary tooth, or fused roots in double-rooted teeth such as C-shaped canals occurring in fused
double-rooted mandibular molars [44]. Two slashes (//) should be used in fused teeth or
roots with intercommunications in the root canal and/or pulp chamber.
● The subtype of each classified anomaly (if present) should be written as a superscript after
the abbreviation of the anomaly. Thus, (DII) describes a tooth with a dens invaginatus type
I [45, 46]. In some instances, it may be impossible to define a subtype of the anomaly during
an examination (such as during conventional radiographic examination), or when it is not
relevant within a specific clinical or experimental report; in such cases, writing the abbre-
viation of the anomaly without a subtype would be sufficient.
Figures 1.13 and 1.14 show the application of the new coding system in teeth with dental
anomalies.
Tooth, Root, and Canal Anatomy 13
components of the endodontic curriculum, and it is the initial educational step to develop under-
standing in tooth anatomy before practicing endodontic treatment and surgical procedures.
A recent national survey study compared feedback from undergraduate Malaysian den-
tal students on both the Vertucci and Ahmed et al. systems [49]. The results revealed that
90% or more of students believed that the new system for classifying root and canal mor-
phology was more accurate and more practical compared to the Vertucci classification and
its supplemental configurations. More than 95% of students believed that the new system
aided their understanding of root and canal morphology, and they would recommend its
inclusion in preclinical and clinical courses (Figure 1.15). Similar results were observed
amongst postgraduate dental students [49]. This is also consistent with results of another
online survey undertaken amongst general dental practitioners (GDPs) and endodontists
in Perú [50].
This favourable feedback is probably attributed to the fact that the new classification is an
‘open system’ that can describe the number of roots accurately and does not have certain types
for categorizing the root canal morphology (no need to memorize certain categories). It is
worth noting that the survey only focused on root canal configurations; however, participants
in the survey undertaken in Malaysia raised comments on the possibilities of using the new
system to classify accessory canals and anomalies [49]. Even though these anatomical land-
marks were not included in that survey, such reflections demonstrate the ability of students to
apply factual knowledge to understand, analyse, evaluate, and even create or add to the origi-
nal product/system [51]. Similar survey studies on accessory canals and anomalies are needed,
which have important clinical implications at the undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Indeed, results of such surveys should not undermine the value of previous classification sys-
tems; students, GDPs, and endodontists still have to be aware of the advantages and limitations
of Vertucci’s classification.
The canal coding system has recently been used with other teaching modules such as virtual
reality [52].
Figure 1.15 A bar chart showing results of two survey studies undertaken in Malaysia [49] and Peru [50].
Tooth, Root, and Canal Anatomy 15
The interpretation of root canal morphology using the new coding system during the obser-
vational phase is important, especially for undergraduate and postgraduate students as well as
GDPs where cases have to be pre-evaluated carefully to fit their level of knowledge and experi-
ence. This means a tooth code 234 B1-2 L1 (double-rooted tooth 34 in which the buccal root is
assumed to have canal configuration 1-2 and the lingual root has one canal) interpreted from
a 2D pre-operative radiograph may not be suitable for an undergraduate dental student, and a
tooth code (RD) 236 M2 D2 (double-rooted tooth 36 in which both mesial and distal roots are
dilacerated – RD – Root Dilaceration) may not be suitable for a GDP. Therefore, the new sys-
tem can play a role in assessing case difficulty at the pre-operative stage, and also can provide
a single code of the tooth after treatment, which may show other anatomical features, such as
accessory canals.
Anatomical challenges and subsequent procedural errors in the apical third of root canals are
associated with less favourable treatment outcomes compared with those that occur in the
coronal third [59]. Therefore, the apical anatomy should be evaluated and understood by cli-
nicians prior to treatment.
The anatomical landmarks of the apical root canal have been investigated since the begin-
ning of the twentieth century. The development of new imaging systems has generated sub-
stantial data to increase knowledge regarding the morphological characteristics of the apical
region of the root and root canal, such as the cemento-dentinal junction (CDJ), apical con-
striction (AC), apical foramen (AF), isthmuses, accessory canals (ACCs), and bifid root apices
(Figure 1.18).
cementum lies inside the canal [60, 61]. Although the nature of the tissue found apically is of
academic interest, it has no clinical impact [61].
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