Lasers in the Management of the Apical Third of Root Canal Systems

Lasers in the Management of the Apical Third of Root Canal Systems is organized by Dentaltown, L.L.C.

Released: 08/10/2016
Expiration Date: 06/30/2025

Overview:
Successful management of the apical third of root canal systems has long been considered to be the most significant and challenging aspect of endodontic therapy. This is especially true in the treatment of apical periodontitis, where elimination of microorganisms is considered to be of the utmost importance for successful clinical outcomes. Significant, because the apical third contains the most important portals of exit of the root canal system to the periradicular area. Challenging, because it is the least accessible part of root canal systems with the most variation in anatomy, making cleaning and disinfection a daunting task. In addition, “successful management” needs to be achieved with minimal alteration to the original canal anatomy while maintaining tooth strength by preserving as much tooth structure as possible.

This lecture will review the importance and complexities of the apical third of root canal systems and will present a new, minimally invasive, laser treatment concept, Radial Apical Cleansing, for successful management of this critical area. The incorporation of Laser Activated Irrigation will play a significant role in the management of root canal system disinfection as well as clinical situations such as loss of patency due to calcification, blockages, ledging and complex canal anatomy. Special consideration will be given to Apical Foramen cleaning and the management of apical ramifications (deltas), lateral canals and isthmuses using laser energy.

Educational Objectives:
Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to achieve the following:
• Appreciate the significance of and the challenge presented by the apical third of root canal systems in the management of apical periodontitis.
• Understand, in light of CBCT findings, the pressing need for an improved approach to apical cleansing, specifically in the management of endodontic retreatments.
• Review the concepts of apical foramen cleaning and apical patency.
• Discuss biofilm in apical periodontitis and the limitations of current treatment protocols in the management of biofilm in complex root canal systems.
• Understand how lasers work and the role of lasers in Radial Apical Cleansing - a new protocol for the management of the apical third in endodontic therapy.
• Review practical applications of this new protocol in clinical situations in endodontics.

Note: The fee to view this course is $36. This cost includes the fee to take the exam and claim your CE credits.

2.0 CE Credits