The effect of preparation procedures on original canal shape and on apical foramen shape

Influence of cervical preflaring on apical transportation in curved root canals instrumented by reciprocating file systems

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of cervical preflaring on apical transportation in curved root canals prepared using the Reciproc and WaveOne reciprocating file systems.

Methods

Sixty curved canals were instrumented using Reciproc R25 and WaveOne Primary files, with and without preflaring (n = 15). A double-digital technique was used to digitally superimpose the file before instrumentation (#15 K-file) on the final apical reciprocating file (#25/08). The angle between the tip of the initial and final file was measured and recorded. Groups were compared using the Kruskal–Wallis test, and significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

The mean and standard deviation for apical transportation was 0.93 ± 2.48 for the Reciproc Group, 0.84 ± 1.94 for the Preflaring + Reciproc Group, 0.40 ± 1.14 for the WaveOne Group, and 0.83 ± 2.20 for the Preflaring + WaveOne Group. No statistically significant differences were found among the groups (p = 0.9509).

Conclusions

Under the conditions of this study, cervical preflaring did not influence apical transportation in curved root canals instrumented using Reciproc R25 and the WaveOne Primary files. Based on the in vitro measurements of apical transportation, the reciprocating files may be used without preflaring in curved root canals.

Comparing the Coronal Flaring Efficacy of Five Different Instruments Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

INTRODUCTION

Fearless removal of tooth structure during canal preparation and shaping has negative effects on the prognosis of treatment. On the other hand, sufficient pre-enlargement facilitates exact measurement of the apical size. The present in vitro study aimed to compare the efficacy of Gates-Glidden drills, K3, ProTaper, FlexMaster and RaCe instruments in dentin removal during coronal flaring using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

METHODS AND MATERIALS

A total of 40 mandibular molars were selected and the coronal areas of their mesiobuccal and mesiolingual root canals were randomly prepared with either mentioned instruments. Pre- and post-instrumentation CBCT images were taken and the thickness of canal walls was measured in 1.5- and 3-mm distances from the furcation area. Data were analyzed using the one-way ANOVA. Tukey's post hoc tests were used for two-by-two comparisons.

RESULTS

At 1.5-mm distance, there was no significant difference between different instruments. However, at 3-mm distances, Gates-Glidden drills removed significantly more dentin compared to FlexMaster files (mean=0.18 mm) (P<0.02); however, two-by-two comparisons did not reveal any significant differences between the other groups.

CONCLUSION

All tested instruments can be effectively used in clinical settings for coronal pre-enlargement.

Cone-beam Computed Tomography Evaluation of Root Canal Preparation using Various Rotary Instruments: An in vitro Study

AIM

To evaluate the remaining dentin thickness of teeth after cleaning and shaping the root canal using three rotary instrumentation technique using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This in vitro study is being done with 30 premolar samples with 20' curvature. The study is divided into three groups a CBCT was taken to measure the shortest distance from the root canal outline to the closest adjacent root surface was measured at each level from the cementoenamel junction (CEJ) (1,3, 5 and 7 mm) before and after root canal instrumentation. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of different instruments used to prepare curved root canals on the remaining cervical dentin thickness and total amount of dentin removed from root canals during instrumentation by using multi-slice CBCT. The remaining dentin thickness is very much necessary for the success rate of root canal treatment. However, this study helps to prove that a conservative preparation with a sound remaining dentin thickness is much more advisable.

RESULT

It was observed that there was a significant difference at 1 and 3 mm (p < 0.05) and at 5 and 7 mm there was no significant difference ( p > 0.05). Mtwo has removed less amount dentin when compared to ProTaper Universal and ProTaper Next system at 1 and 3 mm.

CONCLUSION

Under the conditions of the study, we concluded that ProTaper Universal and ProTaper Next should be used judiciously, as it causes higher thinning of root dentin of the root when compared with Mtwo.

Comparative evaluation of the shaping ability of two different nickel-titanium rotary files in curved root canals of extracted human molar teeth

AIM

The aim of the present study was to compare the shaping ability of two different nickel-titanium rotary files in the curved root canals of extracted human molar teeth.

METHODS

Thirty root canals of 17 extracted human molars teeth were randomly assigned to two experimental groups (n = 15): ProTaper Next and ProTaper Universal (PTU), on the basis of the rotary files system used. The final size of all apical foramina was 0.25 mm in diameter. Standardized digital radiographs were taken before and after instrumentation in both clinical and proximal views, with a size 10 K-file inserted into the canal for the determination of the angle of curvature and apical transportation. Preparation time and fractured or deformed instruments were also recorded. The unpaired Student's t-test was used to compare results.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the two instruments with respect to canal straightening and apical transportation before and after instrumentation (P > 0.05). The use of both instruments resulted in a significant reduction in the angle of curvature after instrumentation (P < 0.05). Instrumentation time was significantly greater for PTU (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The ProTaper Universal and ProTaper Next systems performed similarly with regard to the straightening of curved root canals and apical transportation. ProTaper Next was significantly faster than ProTaper Universal.

Rethinking root canal treatment: understanding the difference between preventing and treating endodontic infection

Root canal treatment is a frequently performed procedure aimed to address pulpal and peri-radicular disease. It comprises a number of clinical steps regardless of the initial diagnosis. The emphasis of each step varies according to whether there is a vital pulp (non-infected) or if the pulp system contains necrotic, infected tissue and there is peri-apical pathology. This article aims to discuss the differences in performing root canal treatments on teeth with vital and non-vital pulps. The reader should understand the differences between performing a root canal treatment in teeth with vital pulps and those with infected root canal spaces and peri-radicular pathology.

Apical root canal transportation of different pathfinding systems and their effects on shaping ability of ProTaper Next

Background

This study aimed to compare glide path preparation of different pathfinding systems and their effects on the apical transportation of ProTaper Next (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) in mesial root canals of extracted human mandibular molars, using digital subtraction radiography.

Material and Methods

The mesial canals of 40 mandibular first molars (with curvature angles between 25° and 35°) were selected for this study. The specimens were divided randomly into 4 groups with 10 canals each. Glide paths were created in group 1 with #10, #15 and #20 K-type (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) stainless steel manual files; in group 2 with Path-File (Dentsply Maillefer) #1, #2, and #3 and in group 3 with #16 ProGlider (Dentsply Maillefer) rotary instruments; in group 4 no glide paths were created. All canals were instrumented up to ProTaper Next X2 to the working length. A double digital radiograph technique was used, pre and post-instrumentation, to assess whether apical transportation and/or aberration in root canal morphology occurred. Instrument failures were also recorded. The data were analyzed statistically using ANOVA and Tukey tests (p<0.05).

Results

No significant differences were found among groups regarding apical transportation (p>0.05). Two ProTaper Next instruments failed in-group 4.

Conclusions

Within the parameters of this study, there was no difference between the performance of path-finding files and ProTaper Next system maintained root canal curvature well and was safe to use either with path-finding files or alone.

Key words:Glide path, PathFile, ProGlider, ProTaper Next, transportation.

Comparative evaluation of shaping ability of two nickel-titanium rotary systems using cone beam computed tomography

Background

We evaluated and compared the effects of different NiTi rotary systems – ProTaper Next and New One Shape – on the volume of dentin removed, canal transportation, and canal curvature in extracted human teeth using CBCT scanning with different voxel sizes.

Methods

Fifty extracted human maxillary first molars with mesiobuccal canal curvature (25-35°) were used. Specimens were instrumented with the ProTaper Next or New One Shape. Pre- and post-instrumentation scans were performed to compare transportation at the levels of 2, 5, and 8 mm and volumes with two different voxel sizes (0.125-and 0.100-mm³) using 3D CBCT images. This study evaluated and compare the volume of dentin removed, canal transportation, and canal curvature. Differences according to instrumentation and voxel sizes were assessed using the Mann–Whitney U-test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results

Significant differences were found between apical and coronal levels for both systems (p < 0.05) in canal transportation. In comparing the systems, similar values were found at each level, without significant difference (p > 0.05) in terms of canal curvature and volume. Voxel sizes did not affect the measurements on canal volume, curvature or transportation; no significant difference was found between the 0.100- and 0.125-mm³ voxel sizes (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Both instrumentation systems produced similar canal transportation and volume changes. The two voxel resolutions also showed similar results, however a 0.125-mm³ voxel size can be recommend for a flat panel CBCT scanner with lower exposure dose.

Comparison of the effects of TripleGates and Gates-Glidden burs on cervical dentin thickness and root canal area by using cone beam computed tomography

The search for new instruments to promote an appropriate cervical preparation has led to the development of new rotary instruments such as TripleGates. However, to the best of the authors' knowledge, there is no study evaluating TripleGates effect on the "risk zone" of mandibular molars.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a crown-down sequence of Gates-Glidden and TripleGates burs on the remaining cervical dentin thickness and the total amount of dentin removed from the root canals during the instrumentation by using cone beam computed tomography. The number of separated instruments was also evaluated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Mesial roots of 40 mandibular first molars were divided into 2 equal groups: crown-down sequence of Gates-Glidden (#3, #2, #1) and TripleGates burs. Cervical dentin thickness and canal area were measured before and after instrumentation by using cone beam computed tomography and image analysis software. Student's t-test was used to determine significant differences at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed between the instruments, regarding the root canal area and dentin wall thickness.

CONCLUSION

Both tested instruments used for cervical preparation were safe to be used in the mesial root canal of mandibular molars.

A review of instrumentation kinematics of engine-driven nickel-titanium instruments

Over the years, NiTi alloys have become indispensable materials in endodontic treatment. With technological advancements in metallurgy, manufacturers have attempted to produce instruments with enhanced features. In parallel with these developments, endodontic motors have undergone improvements in terms of torque control and kinematics that are adjustable in different directions. This review presents an overview of the advancements in instrumentation kinematics and the effect of instrumentation kinematics on root canal shaping procedures and instrument performance. The literature search for this narrative review was conducted in Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed and Web of Science using the keywords 'kinematics and endodontics' and 'reciprocation and endodontics'. In addition, historical literature was searched using the keyword 'nickel-titanium and endodontics'. Overall, 143 articles were included up to 2015.

Root canal centering ability of rotary cutting nickel titanium instruments: A meta-analysis

Aim:

To systematically review articles on canal centering ability of endodontic rotary cutting Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) instruments and subject results to meta-analysis.

Materials and Methods:

A comprehensive search was initiated on canal centering ability of different rotary cutting Ni-Ti files such as Protaper, Hero Shaper, K3, Mtwo, Race, Wave One by selecting articles published in peer reviewed journals during 1991-2013 using “Pub Med” database. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established. A data was created by tabulating: Author name, publication year, sample size, number of experimental groups, methods to evaluate canal centering ability, instrument cross section, taper, tip design, rake angle, mean and standard deviation. The data generated was subjected to meta-analysis.

Results:

Maximum studies were found to be conducted on mesiobuccal canal of mandibular 1^st molar with curvature ranging from 15-60°. The difference in canal centering ability of different rotary cutting Ni-Ti instruments was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

All endodontic rotary cutting Ni-Ti instruments are capable of producing centered preparations. Protaper depicted the best centering ability. Computed tomography is an effective method of evaluating canal centering ability.

The influence of different angles and reciprocation on the shaping ability of two nickel-titanium rotary root canal instruments

PURPOSE

The purpose of the present study was to investigate and compare the effect of different reciprocating movements and angles on the shaping ability of the WaveOne and the single-fle ProTaper F2 using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mesiobuccal canals of 40 extracted maxillary molars, with curvatures of 20 to 45° were coded and randomly divided into 4 equal experimental groups according to the instrument used (ProTaper F2 fle and Wa-veOne) and the reciprocation range, for both instruments, a 150° angle was used for cutting and a 30° angle was used for release. Group 1 - WaveOne primary 150° CCW rotation angle and 30° CW rotation angle; Group 2 - WaveOne 90° CCW rotation angle and 30° CW rotation angle; Group 3 - ProTaper F2 150° CW rotation angle and 30° CCW rotation angle; Group 4 - ProTaper F2 90° CW rotation angle and 30° CCW rotation angle. Canals were scanned before and after preparation using CBCT to evaluate the volumetric change, canal transportation and the canal centering ability at 2.6, 5.2 and 7.8 mm from the apex. The mean ± standard deviation (SD) values were analyzed, and the significance level was set at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in the amount of dentin removed among the experimental groups, except that WaveOne 150°CCW 30°CW significantly showed the least volume of dentin removed (0.40 ± 0.9) at 7.8 mm. All rotary systems tested in the different groups resulted in canal transportation in different directions at all examined levels. WaveOne 150°CCW 30°CW, demonstrated the lowest mean value of root canal transportation in both the mesial and furcal directions and in both the coronal and apical directions compared to the other groups. At the 7.8 level, WaveOne 150°CCW 30°CW yielded the highest mean centering ratio, whereas ProTaper F2 CW 150° CCW 30° yielded the lowest, statistically significant at p ≤ 0.05.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study demonstrated that differences among various reciprocating motions and angles could affect the shaping ability of a single-fle Nickel-titanium (NiTi) instrument.

Shaping ability of reciproc and TF adaptive systems in severely curved canals of rapid microCT-based prototyping molar replicas

Objective:

To evaluate the shaping ability of Reciproc and Twisted-File Adaptive systems in rapid prototyping replicas.

Material and Methods:

Two mandibular molars showing S-shaped and 62-degree curvatures in the mesial root were scanned by using a microcomputed tomography (μCT) system. The data were exported in the stereolitograhic format and 20 samples of each molar were printed at 16 µm resolution. The mesial canals of 10 replicas of each specimen were prepared with each system. Transportation was measured by overlapping radiographs taken before and after preparation and resin thickness after instrumentation was measured by μCT.

Results:

Both systems maintained the original shape of the apical third in both anatomies (P>0.05). Overall, considering the resin thickness in the 62-degree replicas, no statistical difference was found between the systems (P>0.05). In the S-shaped curvature replica, Reciproc significantly decreased the thickness of the resin walls in comparison with TF Adaptive.

Conclusions:

The evaluated systems were able to maintain the original shape at the apical third of severely curved mesial canals of molar replicas.

A Survey of Standard Protocols for Endodontic Treatment in North of KSA

The objective of this study was to collect information regarding methods, materials, and attitudes employed during the endodontic treatment by dentists in north of Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire was designed and distributed among 300 dentists in north of Saudi Arabia to collect the data about the standard protocols of endodontic treatment. The collected data was analyzed by using the SPSS 10 computer software. Out of a total of 300 surveyed dentists, the 66% response rate showed that this study was true representation of the endodontic treatment performed by the dentists in north of Saudi Arabia. 152 (76%) were general dentists and 48 (24%) were endodontists. 18 (9%) were using rubber dam as the method of isolation during endodontic treatment. 173 (86.5%) were using only measurement radiographs for working length determination and 27 (13.5%) were using both electronic apex locator and measurement radiographs. 95 (47.5%) of the respondents were using standardized technique and 25 (12.5%) were using step-down as a root canal preparation technique. 127 (63.5%) of the respondents were using lateral condensation technique, with gutta percha points for root canal obturation.

Shaping the root canal system

The speciality of endodontics encompasses numerous elements, but the use of a variety of instruments to shape root canal systems probably challenges the clinical time of practitioners more than any other. The aim of this article is to review some of the historic and contemporary approaches to this challenging practical objective.

Geometric analysis of maxillary first premolar prepared by two nickel-titanium rotary instruments

AIM

The present study was conducted with the aim of evaluating and comparing the shaping ability of two Nickel-titanium rotary instruments, with two disparate design features, on root canal geometry of extracted human maxillary first premolars using microcomputed tomography.

STUDY DESIGN

Twenty four bifurcated maxillary first premolars were divided into two groups and embedded in a rubber-based impression material. Both groups were submitted to micro-computed tomography before and after canal preparation (buccal and palatal) with either ProFile Vortex or Revo-S rotary instruments. Images were reconstructed and cross-sections corresponding to a distance 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 mm from the anatomical apex were selected for canal transportation analysis. Volume changes were also measured.

RESULTS

The degree and direction of canal transportation were non-significant for both instruments. Statistically significant differences were observed only between levels in the buccal canal in both groups. There was no significant difference between the two rotary systems in regards to the volume of dentin removed.

CONCLUSION

Our findings showed that ProFile Vortex and Revo-S instruments respected the original root canal anatomy and behaved similarly. ProFile Vortex rotary systems produced with innovative process were concluded to shape the upper maxillary premolar by leading minimal canal transportation, similar to Revo-S, rotary systems produced from traditional process.

Smear layer removal in canals shaped with reciprocating rotary systems

The aim was to assess the presence of smear layer after canal instrumentation with two reciprocating rotary systems and a continuous motion one. Thirty canals were shaped with Reciproc, WaveOne or Mtwo systems. Smear layer was assessed following a three value scale at coronal, middle and apical levels with a scanning electron microscopy. Reciproc scores: coronal third, 20% of the cases: 0, 60%: 1, 20%: 2; middle third, 10%: 0, 20%: 1, 70%:2; apical third: 2 in all cases. WaveOne scores: coronal third, 0 (40%), 1 (30%) and 2 (30%); middle third, 0 (20%), 1 (50%), 2 (30%); apical third, 0 (20%), 2 (80%) of cases. MTwo scores: coronal third 0 (50%), 1 (30%) 2 (20%); middle third 0 (20%), 1 (50%), 2 (30%); apical third, 0 (10%), 1 (10%), 2 (80%). No significant differences (p>0.05) were found between the three used systems.

Key words:Endodontics, reciprocating motion files, rotary file, SEM, smear layer.

Working length changes in curved canals after coronal flaring by using rotary files and hand file: An in vitro study

Aim:

This in vitro investigation examined the effect of early coronal flaring (CF) and late CF on the working length (WL) in curved root canals.

Background:

The objective of this study was to determine if canal length is altered as a result of CF in curved canals of molar roots.

Study Design:

The conditions compared were combinations of (a) stainless steel hand files using Gates Glidden (G. G.) drills (SS) versus nickel-titanium rotary files (Ni-Ti); and (b) early CF (flaring completed before WL determination) versus late CF (flaring completed after WL determination). Selected were 90 canals of extracted maxillary or mandibular first molars (mesial root of mandibular molars and the mesiobuccal root of the maxillary molars) from three groups. CF was accomplished for the SS group using G. G. drills and for the Ni-Ti group using rotary ProTaper and Hero Shaper files. WL was determined by a digital vernier caliper before CF, immediately after CF, and again after canal preparation.

Statistical Analysis:

A repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and a Tukey's multiple prosthoc test were used for this study.

Results:

Results indicated that WL decreased for all canals as a result of canal preparation. The mean decrease in WL was significantly greater for the SS group (−0.77 ± 0.42 mm) than for the Ni-Ti groups (−0.33 mm ± 0.44). Less change in WL occurred in all groups when initial WL was determined after CF.

Conclusion:

WL in curved canals consistently decreases during the course of instrumentation. Clinician should keep this in mind for better treatment outcome.

Cone-beam computed tomography analysis of curved root canals after mechanical preparation with three nickel-titanium rotary instruments

Cone beam computed tomography is a 3-dimensional high resolution imaging method. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of 3 different NiTi rotary instruments used to prepare curved root canals on the final shape of the curved canals and total amount of root canal transportation by using cone-beam computed tomography. A total of 81 mesial root canals from 42 extracted human mandibular molars, with a curvature ranging from 15 to 45 degrees, were selected. Canals were randomly divided into 3 groups of 27 each. After preparation with Protaper, Revo-S and Hero Shaper, the amount of transportation and centering ability that occurred were assessed by using cone beam computed tomography. Utilizing pre- and post-instrumentation radiographs, straightening of the canal curvatures was determined with a computer image analysis program. Canals were metrically assessed for changes (surface area, changes in curvature and transportation) during canal preparation by using software SimPlant; instrument failures were also recorded. Mean total widths and outer and inner width measurements were determined on each central canal path and differences were statistically analyzed. The results showed that all instruments maintained the original canal curvature well with no significant differences between the different files (P = 0.226). During preparation there was failure of only one file (the protaper group). In conclusion, under the conditions of this study, all instruments maintained the original canal curvature well and were safe to use. Areas of uninstrumented root canal wall were left in all regions using the various systems.

Comparison of the centering ability of Wave·One and Reciproc nickel-titanium instruments in simulated curved canals

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the shaping ability of newly marketed single-file instruments, Wave·One (Dentsply-Maillefer) and Reciproc (VDW GmbH), in terms of maintaining the original root canal configuration and curvature, with or without a glide-path.

Materials and Methods

According to the instruments used, the blocks were divided into 4 groups (n = 10): Group 1, no glide-path / Wave·One; Group 2, no glide-path / Reciproc; Group 3, #15 K-file / Wave·One; Group 4, #15 K-file / Reciproc. Pre- and post-instrumented images were scanned and the canal deviation was assessed. The cyclic fatigue stress was loaded to examine the cross-sectional shape of the fractured surface. The broken fragments were evaluated under the scanning electron microscope (SEM) for topographic features of the cross-section. Statistically analysis of the data was performed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results

The ability of instruments to remain centered in prepared canals at 1 and 2 mm levels was significantly lower in Group 1 (p < 0.05). The centering ratio at 3, 5, and 7 mm level were not significantly different.

Conclusions

The Wave·One file should be used following establishment of a glide-path larger than #15.

Shaping ability of three nickel-titanium endodontic file systems in simulated S-shaped root canals

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to determine the shaping ability of 3 nickel-titanium (NiTi) endodontic file systems by measuring canal transportation.

METHODS

Seventy-two S-shaped canals in resin blocks were randomly allocated into 3 groups (n = 24): the Self-Adjusting File (SAF; ReDent Nova, Ra'anana, Israel) group, the Typhoon group (Typhoon rotary files with Controlled Memory Wire; DS Dental, Johnson City, TN), and the Vortex group (ProFile Vortex rotary files with M-Wire NiTi; Dentsply Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK). Blocks were secured in a jig for imaging standardization and instrumentation stabilization. Gates Glidden and PathFile drills (25 mm/.02 taper) were used to prepare the glide paths. For the Typhoon and Vortex groups (25 mm/.04 taper), canals were flooded with sterile water and instrumented using a crown-down technique from sizes 40 to 20/.04 and then apically enlarged to size 30/.04. The SAF group (25 mm) was instrumented with constant sterile water irrigation in a light-pecking, transline motion. Pre- and postinstrumentation images were taken at 40× magnification and layered, and canal transportation was measured.

RESULTS

After adjusting for the level and canal wall side, the mean transportation was significantly higher for the Typhoon (P < .001) and Vortex (P = .005) groups compared with the SAF group. Additionally, the mean transportation was significantly higher for the Typhoon group versus the Vortex group (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Under the conditions of this study, SAFs showed less canal transportation than ProFile Vortex and Typhoon files in simulated S-shaped root canals.

Type III apical transportation of root canal

Procedural accidents leading to complications such as canal transportation have been ascribed to inapt cleaning and shaping concepts. Canal transportation is an undesirable deviation from the natural canal path. Herewith a case of apical transportation of root canal resulting in endodontic retreatment failure and its management is presented. A healthy 21-year-old young male presented discomfort and swelling associated with painful endodontically retreated maxillary incisor. Radiograph revealed periradicular radiolucency involving underfilled 11 and overfilled 12. Insufficiently obturated 11 exhibited apical transportation of canal. This type III transportation was treated by periradicular surgery and repair using white mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA). Comfortable asymptomatic patient presented uneventful healing at third and fourth month recall visits. A decrease in the size of radiolucency in radiograph supported the clinical finding. In the present case, MTA is useful in repairing the transportation defect. The result of these procedures is predictable and successful.

Success rates for removing or bypassing fractured instruments: a prospective clinical study

INTRODUCTION

The objective of this study was to evaluate the success rates of standardized techniques for removing or bypassing fractured instruments from root canals and determine whether visualization of the fractured instrument with the aid of an operating microscope has any impact on the success rates.

METHODS

In this prospective study, attempts were made to visualize 112 fractured instruments under a dental operating microscope after creating a straight-line access to the fragment. By using ultrasonic tips alone or associated with bypassing, the Ruddle technique was attempted to remove the 68 visible instruments. Bypassing was performed for the 44 nonvisible fragments. The χ(2) test was performed to assess whether any significant difference occurred between the success rates observed for the visible and nonvisible fractured instrument groups.

RESULTS

The overall success rate (removal and bypassing) was 70.5% (n = 79). In the visible fragment group, the success rate was 85.3% (n = 58), and in the nonvisible fragment group it was 47.7% (n = 21). Success rates were significantly higher when the fragment was visible (P = .0009).

CONCLUSIONS

The standardized techniques used in this study for removing or bypassing fractured instruments were effective, and approximately 2 times greater success rate was obtained when the fragment was visible inside the root canal compared with when it was nonvisible.

Effects of Gates-Glidden, LA Axxess and orifice shaper burs on the cervical dentin thickness and root canal area of mandibular molars

This study evaluated the increase of the instrumented area and dentin thickness in the mesial and distal aspects of mesial canals of mandibular molars after the use of Gates Glidden (GG), LA Axxess (LA) and Orifice Shaper (OS) instruments. A total of 53 canals from 27 mandibular molars were embedded in resin and divided into 3 groups. The roots were sectioned 3 mm below the cementoenamel junction and the images were captured before and after instrumentation. The increase of the instrumented area in terms of percentages and the remaining dentin thickness, in mm, at the mesial and furcal aspects were calculated using the Image tools software. Data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's test. The significance level was set at 5%. All instruments promoted cervical flaring with different amounts of dentin removal at the mesial and distal aspects of the root canals. Statistically significant difference (p<0.05) was found between LA and all other instruments after using the first instrument. Regarding dentin thickness, no significant difference (p>0.05) was found between the mesial and distal walls in all groups. It may be concluded that LA 35.06 and GG 3 burs produced the thinnest dentin walls, and thus their use in mesial canals of mandibular molars should be done with caution.

Comparison of root canal preparation using reciprocating Safesiders stainless steel and Vortex nickel-titanium instruments

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to assess several parameters related to the clinical usage of 2 root canal preparation instruments: Vortex .06 rotary nickel-titanium instruments, and Safesiders reciprocating stainless steel instruments.

STUDY DESIGN

Fifty extracted mandibular molars with mesial root canal curvatures between 20° and 50° were divided into 2 groups and embedded in acrylic resin inside a modified Bramante muffle system. All root canals were prepared to ISO size 40 using either Vortex .06 rotary nickel-titanium-instruments in a low-torque motor or Safesiders stainless steel instruments in a proprietary reciprocating handpiece. The following parameters were evaluated: straightening of curved root canals, working safety issues (perforations, instrument breakages, canal blockages, loss of working length), postpreparation root canal cross-section, and working time.

RESULTS

The Vortex .06 instruments maintained canal curvatures well, with the mean degree of straightening recorded as 0.72°. Safesiders instruments demonstrated significantly more canal straightening, with the mean degree of straightening recorded as 15.5°. More than 90% of the root canals prepared with the Vortex .06 instruments resulted in a round or oval cross-section, whereas the Safesiders instruments produced round or oval cross-sections 60% of the time. Neither of the 2 instruments could effectively prepare 100% of the root canal circumference. The area of dentin removed and the remaining dentin thicknesses from each region were similar for the 2 groups. Six procedural incidents were recorded for the Vortex .06 group, compared with 19 for the Safesiders group. There were no instrument fractures recorded in either group. Mean working time was significantly shorter for Vortex .06 (279 s) than for Safesiders (324 s).

CONCLUSIONS

Vortex .06 maintained the original root canal curvatures well, whereas Safesiders instruments demonstrated significant straightening and irregular preparation shapes when used in sizes larger than ISO 20. Preparation of the complete circumference of the root canal was not possible with either system. Fewer procedural errors occurred with the Vortex instruments.

A survey of root canal treatment of molar teeth by general dental practitioners in private practice in Saudi Arabia

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the practice and depth of knowledge of root canal treatment by general dental practitioners working in private dental centers in different cities within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire was distributed to 400 general dental practitioners. Completed questionnaires were analyzed in term of simple summary statistics. A total of 252 (63%) practitioners responded. The majority of the respondents were Syrians (59%) and Egyptians (32%). Ninety-one per cent of the respondents indicated that they performed root canal treatment. Amongst those who carried out root canal treatment, only seven practitioners (3%) used rubber dam for isolation. More than half of the respondents (55%) used saline to irrigate canals during treatment. Forty-six per cent of practitioners used formocresol as an inter appointment medicament. The standardized and step-back preparation techniques were the method of choice for the majority of the respondents (91%). Ninety-seven per cent of the practitioners used stainless steel hand instruments to prepare root canals and the majority (92%) used gutta-percha for obturation. Seventy-four per cent of the respondent used cold lateral condensation. The average number of radiographs routinely taken for root canal treatment was four. Ninety-three per cent indicated that they usually completed a root canal treatment of molar teeth in three or more visits. Eighty-eight per cent of the practitioners preferred waiting for 1 or 2 weeks to restore the teeth permanently. Results of this study confirm that many general dental practitioners are not following quality guidelines for endodontic treatment.