Effects of four Ni–Ti preparation techniques on root canal geometry assessed by micro computed tomography.

Author: Peters OA, Schönenberger K, Laib A

Source: International Endodontic Journal

Year: 2001

Comment:

Abstract / Excerpt:

AIM:

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of four preparation techniques on canal volume and surface area using three-dimensionally reconstructed root canals in extracted human maxillary molars. In addition, micro CT data was used to describe morphometric parameters related to the four preparation techniques.

METHODOLOGY:

A micro computed tomography scanner was used to analyse root canals in extracted maxillary molars. Specimens were scanned before and after canals were prepared using Ni-Ti – K-Files, Lightspeed instruments, ProFile.04 and GT rotary instruments. Differences in dentine volume removed, canal straightening, the proportion of unchanged area and canal transportation were calculated using specially developed software.

RESULTS:

Instrumentation of canals increased volume and surface area. Prepared canals were significantly more rounded, had greater diameters and were straighter than unprepared canals. However, all instrumentation techniques left 35% or more of the canals’ surface area unchanged. Whilst there were significant differences between the three canal types investigated, very few differences were found with respect to instrument types.

CONCLUSIONS:

Within the limitations of the micro CT system, there were few differences between the four canal instrumentation techniques used. By contrast, a strong impact of variations of canal anatomy was demonstrated. Further studies with 3D-techniques are required to fully understand the biomechanical aspects of root canal preparation.

Citation: Peters OA, Schönenberger K, Laib A. Effects of four Ni–Ti preparation techniques on root canal geometry assessed by micro computed tomography. International Endodontic Journal. 2001;34(3):221-30.