Use of dynamic navigation system in endodontics: A literature review

Abstract

Over the years, traditional endodontic approaches performed have caused significant loss of healthy tooth structure. Clinical approach became relatively predictable following the introduction of cone-beam computed tomography, Digital Imaging and Communications files, and dental operating microscopes. Despite these advances, mishaps such as excessive dentin loss and/or perforations may still occur during freehand preparations affecting the tooth's prognosis. Following the developments in surface scanning and three-dimensional printing, static guidance systems were introduced. However, they too had multiple drawbacks. Dynamic navigation systems (DNSs) were introduced following to overcome them. DNS is based on computer-aided navigation technology analogous to the Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation. New minimally invasive preparations have been put forward claiming to be the future of endodontics which can be achieved with the help of DNS. The review thus aims at evaluating the possible use of DNS in planning and executing these minimally invasive preparations without unnecessary loss of healthy tooth structure.

Keywords

• cone-beam computed tomography
• digital imaging and communications
• dynamic navigation system
• jaw tracking
• ultraconservative access cavities