Understanding Resorption with CBCT: How Endodontists Evaluate Treatability

June 16, 2026 6-9PM CST

$75 Early Bird Pricing | $125 after May 1st

The Enova Dental Training Center: 6305 Sandburg Rd, STE 100. Minneapolis MN, 55427

Instructor:
Dr. Michael J. Tulkki, DDS, MS

Course Description:

This lecture focuses on how CBCT imaging is used to evaluate resorptive lesions and pulpal status to guide clinical decision making.

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides clinicians with powerful diagnostic insight when evaluating complex endodontic conditions that may not be clearly visible on traditional radiographs. Understanding how to navigate and interpret these scans can improve diagnostic confidence and support more efficient communication between general dentists, specialists, and patients.

In this course, Dr. Mike Tulkki of Wayzata Endodontics shares how CBCT imaging is used when evaluating teeth for endodontic treatment, with a focus on identifying dental resorption and assessing pulpal health. Through clinical examples and case-based discussion, participants will learn to differentiate internal and external resorption and understand how CBCT findings influence treatment decisions, including when conservative approaches such as vital pulp therapy may be appropriate. The program will also explore restorative considerations and the role of modern bioactive materials when managing resorptive defects and preserving pulpal vitality.

Participants will learn:

• What dental resorption is and how it develops
• Key radiographic differences between internal and external resorption
• Practical strategies for evaluating CBCT scans during endodontic assessment
• How CBCT findings influence treatment decisions and prognosis
• Imaging considerations that support case selection for vital pulp therapy
• Clinical considerations when restoring teeth affected by resorptive defects
• Brief hands-on demonstration using simulated teeth to illustrate materials used in vital pulp therapy and resorptive defect repair
• Materials commonly used to preserve pulpal vitality, support biologic healing of the pulp, and repair resorptive defects

Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:

1. Apply practical navigation techniques when reviewing CBCT datasets for suspected endodontic conditions.
2. Identify radiographic characteristics that differentiate internal resorption from external resorption.
3. Recognize CBCT findings that influence endodontic treatment decisions and prognosis.
4. Describe how CBCT imaging supports clinical decision making when considering vital pulp therapy.
5. Integrate CBCT findings into treatment planning and restorative considerations for teeth affected by resorptive defects.
6. Identify restorative and bioactive materials commonly used when preserving pulp vitality or repairing resorptive lesions.

Target Audience:
General dentists interested in improving their confidence evaluating endodontic cases with CBCT imaging.

Course Format
Lecture with clinical case examples, CBCT image review, and a brief hands-on demonstration of pulp therapy materials using simulated teeth. (Approximately 2 hours)

Presented by:

Dr. Michael Tulkki, DDS, MS

With nearly 20 years of experience as a board-certified endodontist at Wayzata Endodontics, PA in Wayzata, MN, Dr. Tulkki has established himself as a pioneer in advanced root canal procedures. His relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in his adept use of state-of-the-art technology, materials and innovative techniques to continually enhance patient outcomes.

Dr. Tulkki earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and a Master of Science in advanced endodontics from the University of MN School of Dentistry in 2006.  He is a current diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics.  His focus has always been on diagnosis of endodontic etiology and has utilized CBCT imaging for 18 years in clinical care.  This rigorous training has equipped him with a deep well of knowledge and expertise that he brings to every aspect of his work.

Dr. Tulkki is a trailblazer in dental innovation. He is the founder of Clinic Shield Scrubs, a company dedicated to designing high-quality, functional scrubs specifically for dental professionals. His role as a clinical consultant for various companies in product design and 3D microscopy further underscores his influence in shaping cutting-edge dental technologies. Dr. Tulkki’s insights and forward-thinking approach have made him a key player in driving advancements within the industry.

His commitment to improving lives extends beyond his professional sphere. He is a co-founder of the Cancer Care Foundation of MN, an organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients. His active involvement with the foundation highlights his dedication to broader healthcare and community service, reflecting his deep-seated belief in making a positive impact on society.

Outside of his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Dr. Tulkki enjoys a vibrant personal life in Orono, MN with his wife, Amy, a dedicated veterinarian, and their three energetic teenagers. The family actively participates in sports, skiing, and traveling, embodying a well-rounded and active approach to life.

Dr. Tulkki’s blend of clinical expertise, innovative spirit, and community commitment uniquely positions him to lead with vision and enthusiasm within dentistry. His proven track record and dynamic approach promise to drive forward-thinking solutions in clinical care.