Proximal caries may be linked to extent, site of pulp canal obliteration

Investigators may have uncovered the relationship between proximal caries and pulp canal obliteration.

In a study published in the Journal of Endodontics, the investigators analyzed 1,491 cone-beam computed tomography scans of the mandibular molar teeth of patients aged 18 to 49 years. They identified 328 teeth with proximal caries.

The investigators observed proximal canal obliteration in the sagittal and coronal planes of 47% of the teeth with proximal caries. They discovered that pulp canal obliteration was more common in the distal root canal in mesial proximal caries but more common in the mesial root canal in distal proximal caries. The mean extent of intra-radicular calcification was greater in the distal root canal, whereas the extent of intra-radicular obliteration was greater in mesial proximal caries.

The findings indicated that the extent of calcification may be more prevalent on the opposite side of the proximal caries location. The investigators hope their research can minimize errors during endodontic procedures and improve patient outcomes.

Read more: Journal of Endodontics

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