Objective: To investigate the accuracy of dimensional evaluation and representation of artefacts generated by different gutta-percha (GP) cones with or without sealer with CBCT using a reproducible, standardised phantom root methodology.
Methods: The reproducible artificial phantom roots with six root canal sizes from #25 to #50 and 0.04 taper were aligned according to the jaw curvature in a stone model for dimensional measurements. Each root was scanned while empty and filled with four types of filling materials. The specimens were scanned using the CS 9300 3D (Carestream Dental, Rochester, NY, USA) (at two different resolutions), 3D Accuitomo (J Morita, Kyoto, Japan) and NewTom VGi (Verona, Italy) CBCT systems. The hyperdense and hypodense axial slice artefacts from root canal sizes #40, #45 and #50 were recorded.
Results: Dimensions were significantly smaller and more accurate with CS 9300/0.09 mm voxel size than with other protocols. The hypodense band was found mostly in the CS 9300 3D system with 0.18 mm voxel size, especially in the buccal-lingual (95%) and coronal (64%) sections. The 3D Accuitomo CBCT system showed the lowest presence of the hypodense band. Areas of both light and dark artefacts were significantly larger in the coronal third than in the apical and middle thirds.
Conclusion: Artefacts in the coronal locations and in buccal-lingual sections were more evident in the CS 9300 3D system with a 0.18-mm voxel size.