# CBCT in Evaluation of Root Canal Preparation—A Scoping Review

## TL;DR

This scoping review evaluates how CBCT is used to assess root canal preparation techniques, highlighting variability in study designs and the need for standardized methods.

## Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of CBCT's role in comparing root canal instrumentation techniques and identifies gaps in current research methodologies.

## Key findings

- Rotary instruments like ProTaper Next® and XP-Endo Shaper® showed favorable shaping trends in studies.
- There is significant heterogeneity in study designs and outcome measurements across the reviewed literature.
- Standardized methodologies and further research, especially on manual techniques, are needed.

## Abstract

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely utilized in endodontics for evaluating root canal shaping outcomes, offering critical three-dimensional imaging capabilities. This study aims to assess the differences in apical and root canal preparation across various instrumentation techniques using CBCT. A systematic search of the Medline database (via PubMed) and Web of Science was performed up to 12 April 2025, yielding a total of 70 studies, with 45 full-text articles assessed for eligibility; 28 were included in the review. Studies showed great heterogeneity in experimental design, anatomical variables, and outcome measurements. The results indicate that rotary instruments, such as ProTaper Next® and XP-Endo Shaper®, were reported more frequently or showed favorable shaping trends in individual studies. Although rotary systems often appeared advantageous, conclusions were limited by study design variability and a lack of correlation with clinical outcomes. The evidence highlights the need for standardized methodologies and further research, especially on manual techniques. CBCT remains a valuable research tool despite inherent spatial resolution limitations.