(TC71) Treating Untouched Root Canal Anatomy Using GentleWave®

Abstract: Root canal irregularities and iatrogenic errors during endodontic treatment may limit the operator’s ability to clean and shape the canal(s). This case report series demonstrates the ability of the GentleWave® system to clean untouched canals, allowing a pathway for sealer-based obturation. In Case 1, tooth #3 was diagnosed as previously endodontically treated with symptomatic apical periodontitis, and the recommended treatment was non-surgical endodontic retreatment. During the removal of the previous filling material, the mesio-buccal (MB) canal was transported, and the operator was unable to clean and shape the apical segment of the root. GentleWave was used following the manufacturer’s recommendations, and the tooth was obturated using a bioceramic sealer and a warm vertical obturation technique. GentleWave adequately cleaned the non-instrumented portal of exit, and the canal was filled with sealer. The patient was asymptomatic, and healing was noticed at the 3-month recall. In Case 2, tooth #30 was diagnosed with pulpal necrosis and symptomatic apical periodontitis. During non-surgical endodontic treatment, the operator was unable to locate and instrument the MB canal. GentleWave was used at two separate visits, and the canals were obturated with a warm vertical condensation technique. The final radiograph showed that the MB canal was filled with a bioceramic sealer. At the 6-month recall, the patient was asymptomatic, and healing was noticed. GentleWave appears to be an excellent adjunct to conventional cleaning and shaping procedures, giving clinicians the best chance at treating areas of the root canal that are difficult or impossible to treat conventionally.