3D reconstruction of three mandibular second molars with C-shaped canals

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to reconstruct the anatomical morphology of three mandibular second molars with C-shaped root canal system by micro-computed tomography and 3D software. Methods: Three extracted mandibular second molars with C-shaped fused roots were collected from a native Chinese population. The teeth were scanned by micro-computed tomography (µCT) at 0.1mm interval thickness. Then the cross-sectional images of each tooth with C-shaped canal were processed by several procedures including calibration, segment object, 3D-rendering. Finally, surface rendering yielded the visualization of the 3D-reconstructed model of the teeth with C-shaped canal system. Results: By using this methods all three teeth with C-shaped canals were accurately reconstructed. The volumes and shape of reconstructed C-shaped canals could be accurately assessed. Conclusions: 3D reconstructed method could be used to analyze the C-shaped root canal anatomy in experimental endodontology.