Applications of micro-computed tomography in endodontic research

Abstract

Department of Endodontics, Bauru Dental School, University of Sao Paulo, Al. Octavio Pinheiro Brisola, 9-75, 17012-901, Bauru, SP, Brazil. One of the greatest advances in endodontic research is the micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Micro-CT is based on multi-slice X-ray images that are digitally grouped into a three-dimensional (3D) image. In comparison to SEM, confocal microscopy and stereomicroscopy, the micro-CT has the advantage of providing tridimensional reconstructions without the requirement of sectioning the samples. Furthermore, the small voxel size of micro-CT result in higher resolution than cone-beam computed tomographic. Micro-CT can be used to evaluate volume and/or area using scanning pre and post endodontic treatment. In this work, some applications of micro-CT in endodontic research are presented.