Three-Dimensional Reconstruction Of The Molar Apical Anatomy And Structure

Objective: To find a more convenient way to reconstruct the morphologic characters of the molar root canal with 3dsmax8.0 in the laboratory .Find the difference between the in vitro and in vivo X-ray image and contrast two-dimensional image with three-dimensional image.Materials and Methods: 12 recently extracted molar roots were studied, including 4 maxillary first molars, 1 maxillary second molar, 2 mandibular molar, 5 mandibular second molar . Took the in vitro and in vivo X-ray film respectively before serial section. Starting at the root apex, serial cross sections were taken from each specimen using a microtome, and each cross section photographed under a stereoscopic microscope. All of the digital photos were inputted into the computer to be reconstructed by 3dsmax8.Results: 1.Comparative result between vitro and vivo X-ray group: (1) The main root canals images in vitro X-ray group is much more than the images in vivo X-ray group.(2)5 apical lateral or accessory canals images can be observed in vitro X-ray group. None of apical lateral or accessory canals images can be observed in vivo X-ray group. (3) In vivo X-ray group the numbers of root canal calcific images are more than in vitro X-ray group's and the level of calcific images are heavier.2.Comparative result between vitro X-ray and 3D imaging group :The numbers of 3D imaging group root canals and apical lateral or accessory canals images are increased .Only 4 of 12 specimens didn't show apical lateral or accessory canals.Conclusion: 1. The images of the tooth in vivo X-ray are relation to the surrounding of it. From this traditional method that we can not be obtained complete information of the tooth anatomy and structure, or even received the wrong information.2. More angulations of X-ray beam is needed in vitro X-ray.3. The three-dimensional images can reveal more information of the tooth anatomy and structure.