Visual “color indicators”, in conjunction with a microscope, as a method to locating canals.
The microscope enhances diagnostics by providing the vision to observe both texture and color. Vital cases bleed and at times blood can be visualized as a small droplet above an orifice or a “red line” within a groove that emanates off an orifice / system. Additionally, a spot of blood on the side of a paper point that is placed within a shaped canal may suggest a lateral canal or the entrance to a deeply branching system. Conversely, in necrotic cases, a “white line” can be visualized as the clinician troughs along a groove. As an example, following a white line off the MB1 system towards the palatal oftentimes leads to the MB2 orifice / canal system. Yellowish, brown lines of varying widths are frequently observed on the pulpal floor of furcated teeth. It should be appreciated that these colored lines map and reveal the position of the various orifices. These anatomical color distinctions provide valuable information and when followed, typically lead to a sought after orifice and related root canal system.
Color is also a critical indicator when chasing a receded or calcified canal. Typically, a small dark brown dot is visualized and represents the position where the canal used to be. Chasing apically along this colored route typically leads to a more open canal that can be negotiated.
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