Negotiating and Treating Lateral Canals: A Report of 7 Cases

This is a series of 7 cases in which the operator penetrated lateral canals with instruments. Two teeth present-ed with irreversible pulpitis, 4 with necrotic pulps, and 1 with previous treatment. Except for the teeth with pulpitis, all the others were associated with apical periodontitis. The main root canal was always relatively straight, with the lateral canals at the middle third of the root. Suggestive images of lateral canal presence were seen on periapical radiographs in five cases. The clinician introduced intentionally small hand instru-ments in the lateral canal in 5 cases, while the penetration was fortuitous in the others. The lateral canals were filled in all cases. Follow-up examination was possible in five cases, all of them showed evidence of successful clinical and radiographic outcomes. Introducing files into lateral canals may permit some preparation and penetration of irrigant solution, favoring disinfection and, consequently, enhancing the treatment outcome.