TREATMENT OF THE LATERAL BRANCH OF THE LABIAL CANAL IN MAXILLARY ANTERIOR TEETH USING AN OPERATING MICROSCOPE

Two cases of intractable apical periodontitis in an anterior maxillary tooth are reported, in which the cause appeared to be a lateral branch during periradicular surgery. The lateral branch opened on the labial root surface and was difficult to identify on plain radiographs. It had been the cause of discomfort in the affected tooth for a long time. Microscopic examination showed a lateral branch, which was treated, and the discomfort disappeared. The incidence and location of lateral branches in maxillary anterior teeth should be considered in surgical endodontic treatment, and the usefulness of the microscope was confirmed.