Comparative Analysis of Irrigation Techniques for Cleaning Efficiency in Isthmus Structures.

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the removal of a biofilm-mimicking hydrogel from isthmus structures in a simulated complex root canal system consisting of 2 curved root canals by Laser-activated irrigation (LAI, AdvErl Evo, Morita) and mechanical activation techniques. METHODS: A 3D-printed root canal model with 2 parallel root canals (60°-curvature, radius 5 mm, dimension 25/.06) with a total length of 20 mm connected via isthmuses (2.5 × 0.4 × 0.2 mm) at 5 mm and 8 mm from the apical endpoint and with lateral canals (diameter 0.2 mm) in all directions at 2, 5, and 8 mm from the apex was filled with a colored biofilm-mimicking hydrogel. Irrigation protocols under continuous irrigation with distilled water (3 × 20s per root canal; 3 ml/20s; n = 20) included conventional needle irrigation (=NI); manual agitation (=MA, gutta-percha point 25/.06); EndoActivator (=SAI-EA, 25/.04); EDDY (=SAI-E, 25/.04); ultrasonically-activated irrigation (=UAI) and LAI (Er:YAG-laser; P400FL tip at canal entrance; 25pps, 50 mJ, 300µs). Removal of the hydrogel was determined as a percentage via standardized photos through a microscope. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis and Conover tests (P = .05). RESULTS: Laser-activated irrigation (LAI) was associated with the greatest removal of hydrogel from the entire root canal system (P < .05), followed by SAI-E. No significant differences were reported for the coronal isthmus between LAI, SAI-E, NI, and MA (P > .05), but inferior results for SAI-EA and UAI (P < .05). In the apical isthmus, all techniques outperformed UAI (P < .05), with LAI, SAI-E, and NI showing the best results (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Laser-activated irrigation (LAI) was superior to other irrigation techniques in the entire root canal system. SAI-E and NI performed comparable to LAI in the isthmuses.

Cleaning Efficiency of Different Irrigation Techniques in Simulated Severely Curved Complex Root Canal Systems.

INTRODUCTION: To compare the biofilm-mimicking hydrogel removal efficiency of laser-activated irrigation (LAI) with five other irrigation techniques in simulated curved root canals with lateral canals. METHODS: Three-dimensional-printed root canal models (60°-curvature, radius 5 mm; dimension 25/.06) with a total length of 20 mm and lateral canals in all directions at 2, 5, and 8 mm (diameter 0.2 mm) from the apex were filled with a colored biofilm-mimicking hydrogel. The following protocols (each 3 × 20 seconds continuous irrigation with distilled water 3 ml/20 seconds; n = 20) were carried out: conventional needle irrigation; manual agitation ([MA], gutta-percha point 25/.06); EndoActivator (=sonically-activated irrigation EndoActivator, 25/.04); EDDY (=sonically-activated irrigation EDDY [SAI-E]; 25/.04); ultrasonically-activated irrigation and LAI (Erbium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet laser; P400FL tip at canal entrance; 25 pps, 50 mJ, 300 µs). Standardized photos were taken with a microscope and the removal of the hydrogel was determined as a percentage for the entire system, the main canal and the lateral canals. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance and Scheffé test (P = .05). RESULTS: LAI (89.3% ± 5.9%) showed the greatest hydrogel removal followed by SAI-E (65.5% ± 3.3%) and ultrasonically-activated irrigation (59.1% ± 4.7%), with significant differences between these groups (P < .05). Needle irrigation, MA, and sonically-activated irrigation EndoActivator performed equally (P > .05) and obtained the significantly lowest values (P < .05). LAI and SAI-E showed the significantly best hydrogel removal from the main canal (P < .05). At all three levels, LAI removed significantly more hydrogel from the lateral canals than all other techniques (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: LAI was superior to other techniques in both the entire system and the lateral canals in removing the hydrogel. SAI-E achieved comparable results in the main canal.

Effect of Core Mass and Alloy on Cyclic Fatigue Resistance of Different Nickel-Titanium Endodontic Instruments in Matching Artificial Canals.

Instrument failure during root canal preparation is still a concern among endodontists. However, it remains unclear whether the use of more martensitic alloys or the cross-sectional design parameters (i.e., core mass) significantly improve fracture resistance. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of core mass and alloy on dynamic cyclic fatigue resistance of nickel-titanium endodontic instruments in matching artificial canals at body temperature. Two groups were tested. (A) taper 0.04: F360 (Komet, Lemgo, Germany), Twisted file (Sybron Endo, Glendora, CA, USA) (=TF), JIZAI (Mani, Tochigi, Japan) (=J_04) (all size #25) and the variable tapered TruNatomy (Dentsply, Ballaigues, Switzerland) (size #26) (=TN). (B) size #25; taper 0.06: (Mtwo (VDW, Munich, Germany), JIZAI (Mani) (=J_06), and variable tapered Hyflex EDM OneFile (Coltene Whaledent, Altstätten, Switzerland) (=HF). Time, number of cycles to fracture (NCF), and number and length of fractured fragments were recorded and statistically analysed using ANOVA Student-Newman-Keuls, Kruskal-Wallis or Chi-square test (significance level = 0.05). (A) TN showed the significantly shortest time until fracture, followed by TF, F360 and J_04 which also differed significantly, while NCF showed the following order: F360 < TN < TF < J_04 (p < 0.05). Only one J_04 but all instruments of the other groups fractured within the test-limit of 10 min. (B) Mtwo was significantly inferior concerning time until fracture and NCF, compared to J_06 and HF (p < 0.05), which did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). While all Mtwo instruments fractured, only four instruments failed in the other groups (p < 0.05). Within the limitations of this study, alloy and cross-sectional design (i.e., core mass) were critical factors regarding instrument failure, but none of these factors could be determined as a main parameter for increased or decreased time, and cycles to fracture. Rather, it seemed to be the interaction of multiple factors (e.g., longitudinal and cross-sectional design, alloy, and rotational speed) that was responsible for differences in the time and cycles to fracture. Nonetheless, all instruments had lifetimes that allow safe clinical use. However, the superiority or inferiority of an instrument with regard to cyclic fatigue based on laboratory results-even when identical trajectories are guaranteed-may be considered questionable, as the characteristics and design parameters of the instruments vary considerably, and the experimental setups lack additional clinical parameters and thus clinical relevance.

Shaping Ability and Debris Extrusion of New Rotary Nickel-Titanium Root Canal Instruments.

The aim was to evaluate the canal straightening and the amount of apically extruded debris associated with five rotary nickel-titanium when preparing curved root canals. A total of 100 root canals in extracted human teeth (angles of curvatures 20°-30°; radii 5.9-13.5 mm) were divided into five groups (n = 20/group). The groups were balanced with respect to the angle and the radius of canal curvature. The root canals were prepared using conventional austenite 55-NiTi alloy instruments F360, F6 SkyTaper (both Komet, Lemgo, Germany), and the heat-treated NiTi Jizai, Silk-Complex and Silk-Standard instruments (all Mani, Tochigi, Japan) to an apical size 25. The amount of extruded debris was assessed with a micro balance. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal-Wallis test with Bonferroni correction at a significance level of p < 0.05. During canal preparation, neither instrument fractures nor procedural preparation errors were noticed. Regarding canal straightening, the use of Jizai instruments resulted in the significantly lowest straightening (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were obtained between all other groups (p > 0.05). Regarding the amount of apically extruded debris, no significant differences between all groups were obtained (p > 0.05). Within the limitations of this study, all instruments performed well, and especially the Jizai instruments showed an excellent shaping ability.

Restorative treatment in a case of amelogenesis imperfecta and 9-year follow-up: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Amelogenesis imperfecta is a hereditary malformation showing various manifestations regarding enamel dysplasia. This case report shows a 9-year follow-up after restorative treatment of a 16-year old female patient affected by a hypoplastic type of amelogenesis imperfecta. The caries-free, hypersensitive teeth of the patient were restored by direct dentin adhesive composite restorations performed in total etch technique. CASE PRESENTATION: After rehabilitation the patient reported a marked improvement of the mastication ability and quality of life especially during food intake. Accumulation of plaque was reduced and the ability to perform adequate oral hygiene was improved. During follow-up of 9 years recurring secondary caries and debonding of fillings were recognized and retreated. CONCLUSIONS: The retrospective assessment exhibits that the performed restorative treatment prolonged the time until further treatment has to be considered, such as prosthetic treatment.

Simvastatin induces adverse effects on proliferation and mineralization of human primary osteoblasts.

BACKGROUND: Frequently statins were administered to reduce the LDL-concentration in circulating blood. Especially simvastatin (SV) is an often prescribed statin. Pleiotropic effects of these drugs were reported. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate effects of SV on osteoblastic mineralization. METHODS: After informed consent primary osteoblasts were collected from tissue surplus after treatment of 14 individuals in the Department of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Münster. The cells were passaged according to established protocols. Viability, mineralization capability and osteoblastic marker (alkaline phosphatase) were determined at day 9, 13 and 16 after adding various SV concentrations (0.05 µM, 0.1 µM, 0.5 µM, 1.0 µM). Statistical analysis was performed using the Kruskal-Wallis-test. RESULTS: The cell cultures showed a time and dose-dependent significantly decreased viability (p < 0.01) and a significantly increased mineralization (p < 0.01) in a late mineralization stage after adding SV. The typical alteration of the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels during osteogenic differentiation was not recognizable. CONCLUSIONS: The pleiotropic effects found for different SV concentrations were possibly originated from other mineralization pathways beside the ALP induced one. Additionally, possible alterations of protein expression levels during mineralization and investigation of possible deviating application of SV in other treatment fields can be considered after gaining a deeper insight in the affected mechanisms.

Removal of Calcium Hydroxide from Artificial Grooves in Straight Root Canals: Sonic Activation Using EDDY Versus Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation and XPendo Finisher.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of the present study was to compare sonic activation using EDDY (VDW, Munich, Germany), passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), and mechanical activation using the XPendo Finisher (FKG Dentaire, La Chaux-des-Fonds, Switzerland) for the removal of calcium hydroxide from artificial grooves in straight root canals. METHODS: The root canals of 90 human maxillary incisors with straight root canals were prepared using Mtwo files (VDW) up to size 40/.04, and the teeth were split longitudinally. A lateral groove in the apical or coronal part was prepared in each root half and filled with calcium hydroxide, and the root halves were reassembled. Five groups were established according to the removal techniques: group A, the XPendo Finisher; group B, EDDY; group C, PUI; group D, manual irrigation with a syringe; and group E, no irrigation (the control group). The activation procedures were performed for 30 seconds with 3 mL sodium hypochlorite 3% as the irrigant. The cleanliness of the grooves was scored under 10× magnification. The median of scoring was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test (P = .05). RESULTS: All activation techniques were significantly more effective in the removal of calcium hydroxide than manual irrigation (P < .05). Regarding the apical groove, EDDY and PUI were significantly more effective in the removal of calcium hydroxide than the XPendo Finisher (P < .05). No difference was found for the coronal groove (P > .05). CONCLUSIONS: EDDY and PUI were significantly more effective in the removal of calcium hydroxide than the XPendo Finisher regarding the apical region. Manual irrigation was significantly less effective than all activation techniques.

Influence of the final irrigation solution on the push-out bond strength of calcium silicate-based, epoxy resin-based and silicone-based endodontic sealers.

The aim was to evaluate the influence of different irrigation solutions on the push-out bond strength (POBS) of three different sealers (AH Plus, BioRoot RCS, GuttaFlow2). Root canals of 180 single-rooted human teeth were instrumented with F360 up to size 45.04. All canals were irrigated with 5 ml NaOCl 3% and 5 ml EDTA 17%. The canals were finally irrigated with either 5 ml NaOCl 3%, CHX 2%, EDTA 17%, citric acid 20% or NaCl 0.9% (n = 36) with a contact time of 5 min and obturated using matching gutta-percha cones according to the single-cone technique in combination with one of the sealers (n = 12). After 8 weeks of incubation, the roots were embedded in resin. Two slices of 1 mm thickness were obtained representing the middle third of the root. Dislodgement resistance was measured and POBS was calculated. Specimens were examined under 4× magnification to determine the mode of bond failure. Statistical analysis was performed using two-way ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls test for POBS and Chi-square test for the mode of failure. POBS was significantly affected by the factor "sealer" (P < 0.001) and by the interaction "sealer/irrigation solution" (P < 0.01). AH Plus revealed significantly higher POBS than BioRoot RCS and GuttaFlow2 (P < 0.05). The POBS of GutttaFlow2 was not affected by the irrigation protocol (P > 0.05). The POBS of AH Plus was positively influenced by EDTA and NaOCl. EDTA had a negative effect on the POBS of BioRoot RCS. The POBS of GuttaFlow2 was not influenced by the irrigation solutions.

Evaluation of the biocompatibility of root canal sealers on human periodontal ligament cells ex vivo.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of two comparatively new calcium silicate containing sealers (MTA-Fillapex and BioRoot-RCS) with that of two established sealers (AH-Plus, epoxy resin-based; Pulp-Canal-Sealer, zinc oxide eugenol containing). Human periodontal ligament cells (PDL-cells) were brought in contact with eluates from freshly mixed and set sealer. The sealers were mixed strictly according to the manufacturers' instructions and identically samples were produced. 1:1, 1:2, and 1:10 dilutions of sealers extract were used. Extracts from freshly mixed sealer were added to the PDL-cells on day one to simulate a clinical scenario. Subsequently, at 24 h, 7, 14, and 21 days extracts form set sealers were used for PDL-cell culturing. PDL-cell viability was analyzed by living-cell-count, MTT-assay, and living/dead-staining, cytotoxicity by LDH-assay, and changes by Richardson-staining. All data were statistically evaluated by one way ANOVA and a posthoc analysis with Bonferroni-Holm testing (p < 0.05). In contact with BioRoot-RCS a regeneration of the PDL-cells were observed over time. This sealer showed the lowest toxicity in a freshly mixed and set state (p < 0.05). MTA-Fillapex and Pulp-Canal-Sealer were cytotoxic in a fresh as well as in a set state, whereas AH-Plus was cytotoxic in a freshly mixed state, but not when the sealer was set. BioRoot-RCS is biocompatible and bioactive because it seems to have a positive influence on the PDL-cell metabolism. Pulp Canal Sealer and MTA-Fillapex showed no biocompatibility in contact with PDL-cells at all. Freshly mixed AH Plus is less biocompatible on PDL than in a set state.

Noncontact recognition of fluorescently labeled objects in deep tissue via a novel optical light beam arrangement.

To date, few optical imaging systems are available in clinical practice to perform noninvasive measurements transcutaneously. Instead, functional imaging is performed using ionizing radiation or intense magnetic fields in most cases. The applicability of fluorescence imaging (e.g., for the detection of fluorescently labeled objects, such as tumors) is limited due to the restricted tissue penetration of light and the required long exposure time. Thus, the development of highly sensitive and easily manageable instruments is necessary to broaden the utility of optical imaging. To advance these developments, an improved fluorescence imaging system was designed in this study that operates on the principle of noncontact laser-induced fluorescence and enables the detection of fluorescence from deeper tissue layers as well as real-time imaging. The high performance of the developed optical laser scanner results from the combination of specific point illumination, an intensified charge-coupled device (ICCD) detector with a novel light trap, and a filtering strategy. The suitability of the laser scanner was demonstrated in two representative applications and an in vivo evaluation. In addition, a comparison with a planar imaging system was performed. The results show that the exposure time with the developed laser scanner can be reduced to a few milliseconds during measurements with a penetration depth of up to 32 mm. Due to these short exposure times, real-time fluorescence imaging can be easily achieved. The ability to measure fluorescence from deep tissue layers enables clinically relevant applications, such as the detection of fluorescently labeled malignant tumors.

Minimally invasive endodontics.

Minimally invasive endodontics (MIE) aims to preserve the maximum of tooth structure during root canal therapy. In the last 15 years there has been rapid progress and development in endodontics, making treatment procedures safer, more accurate, and more efficient. Meanwhile, reproducible results can be achieved even in difficult root canal morphologies with severe or double curvatures. In addition to various material improvements, the implementation of the surgical microscope (SM) in endodontics is an important innovation, making it possible to optimize each step in the treatment protocol in terms of substance preservation.

Shaping ability of different nickel-titanium systems in simulated S-shaped canals with and without glide path.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to compare the shaping ability of different rotary and reciprocating nickel-titanium file systems with and without previous glide path preparation in simulated S-shaped canals. METHODS: One hundred twenty S-shaped canals in resin blocks were prepared to an apical size 25 by using Reciproc, WaveOne, HyflexCM, F360, and OneShape systems either with or without previous glide path preparation (Pathfile) (12 canals/group). Material removal was measured at 20 measuring points, beginning 1 mm from the end point of preparation. Incidence of canal aberrations (zip/elbow, ledge formation), preparation time, and instrument failures were also recorded. Statistical analyses were performed by using analysis of variance and Tukey and χ(2) tests. RESULTS: For all systems, glide path preparation exerted no significant effect on preparation times (P > .05). Glide path preparation had no influence on the incidence of canal aberrations and instrument fractures (P > .05), with no significant differences between the 5 systems (P > .05). Glide path preparation had no influence on the centering ability of all systems (P > .05). On average, canals prepared with F360, OneShape, and HyflexCM remained better centered compared with those enlarged with WaveOne and Reciproc. CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of this study, glide path preparation had no significant impact on canal straightening. Less tapered instruments maintained the original canal curvature better than instruments having greater tapers.

Percentage of gutta-percha-filled areas in canals instrumented with nickel-titanium systems and obturated with matching single cones.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to compare different single-cone obturation techniques in terms of the percentage of gutta-percha-filled areas (PGFA), sealer-filled areas (PSFA), and voids. METHODS: Sixty extracted mandibular incisors with straight canals were allocated into 6 groups: (A) FlexMaster, (B) Mtwo, (C) ProTaper, (D) Reciproc, (E) WaveOne, and (F) control. In groups A-E, obturation was performed by using matching single-cone gutta-percha. In group F (control), manual instrumentation and obturation were performed by using cold lateral compaction with standardized gutta-percha cones. The teeth were sectioned at 2, 4, 6, and 8 mm from the apex. The total area of each canal segment was measured, and the areas were converted to PGFA, PSFA, and percentage of voids. Data were subjected to the Kruskal-Wallis and post hoc Dunn test. RESULTS: At the 2-mm level, group B produced significantly higher PGFA than all other groups, whereas group B produced significantly higher PGFA than groups C, D, and E (P < .05). At the 4-mm level, groups A and B produced significantly higher PGFA than all other groups, whereas group F produced significantly higher PGFA and lower PSFA than groups C, D, and E (P < .05). At the 6-mm level, group F produced significantly higher PGFA and lower PSFA (P < .05) than all other groups, whereas groups A and B produced significantly higher PGFA and lower PSFA than groups C, D, and E (P < .05). At the 8-mm level, group F produced significantly higher PGFA and lower PSFA (P < .05) than all other groups. CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of this study, lateral compaction and single-cone techniques that used constant tapered gutta-percha (FlexMaster, Mtwo) produced higher PGFA at the apical levels than variable tapered single-cone gutta-percha (ProTaper, Reciproc, WaveOne).

Impact of nickel-titanium instrumentation of the root canal on clinical outcomes: a focused review.

Nickel-titanium (NiTi) root canal instruments have improved the technical quality of enlarging and shaping. These instruments have been shown to prepare even severely curved root canal with fewer procedural errors than traditional stainless steel hand instruments. While it would appear that these instruments might enhance clinical outcomes, very few studies have assessed their impact when used in primary root canal treatment. Clinical studies investigating the outcome of primary root canal treatment using nickel-titanium hand or rotary instruments were identified (MEDLINE database) using appropriate key words in an attempt to determine if there have been enhanced outcomes with these instruments. Evidence from one clinical trial suggests that (i) better maintenance of the original canal curvature and shape results in increased success rates and (ii) that ledging of root canals results in reduced success rates. Evidence from two studies indicates that the use of NiTi-either hand or rotary-instruments significantly increases success rates of primary nonsurgical root canal treatment compared with the use of stainless steel hand instruments, while three investigations failed to show any significant differences.

Prevalence of taurodont and pyramidal molars in a German population.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the prevalence of taurodont and pyramidal molars among a German dental school patient population. METHODS: A total of 800 patients' full-mouth periapical radiographs were screened. The radiographs were evaluated under optimal conditions using double magnifying glasses. A total of 4,885 molars (including third molars) were evaluated. The relative incidence and the correlations regarding the location of taurodont and pyramidal teeth (right versus left side and maxillary versus mandibular) were analyzed using the chi-square test. RESULTS: Eighteen patients were found to have a taurodont molar (13 women and 5 men [p = 0.097]). Fifteen patients were found to have a pyramidal molar (11 women and 4 men [p = 0.124]). The overall incidence of patients with taurodont molars was 2.25% and with pyramidal molars 1.88%, respectively. The prevalence of taurodont molars from all teeth examined was 0.61%, and the prevalence of pyramidal molars was 0.50%. No significant differences were obtained regarding the location of the affected teeth (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The occurrence of taurodont or pyramidal molars among this German population was rare.

Shaping ability of four nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated S-shaped canals.

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to compare the shaping ability of ProTaper, Mtwo, BioRaCe, and BioRaCe + S-Apex instruments in simulated canals with an S-shaped curvature. METHODS: Canal transportation and aberrations were assessed by comparing the preinstrumentation and postinstrumentation images under a stereomicroscope. Analysis of variance and post hoc Student-Newman-Keuls test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: ProTaper instruments caused more pronounced canal transportation in the apical curvature (P < .01) than all other instruments. The use of ProTaper, Mtwo, and BioRaCe instruments resulted in more canal aberrations compared with BioRaCe + S-Apex (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: NiTi systems including less tapered and more flexible instruments like S-Apex seem to be favorable when preparing S-shaped canals.

Chemical analysis of nickel-titanium rotary instruments with and without electropolishing after cleaning procedures with sodium hypochlorite.

The aim of this study was to chemically analyze rotary nickel-titanium instruments with and without electropolishing after cleaning procedures with NaOCl. To evaluate the effect of 5.25% NaOCl on electropolished RaCe instruments, a total of 18 instruments were tested. A control group of 18 nonelectropolished RaCe instruments was used. The surface of each instrument was analyzed before and after cleaning in NaOCl by using energy dispersive x-ray analysis, Auger electron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Surface defects were recorded, and a chi(2) test was used for statistical analysis. After immersion in NaOCl, the nonelectropolished and electropolished files showed a significant increase of iron deposits as a result of galvanic corrosion of the shaft (P < .05). The nonelectropolished files showed marked presence of NaCl deposits in the machining marks and microcracks. As regards the chemical nature of the surface, the electropolished files had an oxide increase compared with the low oxide concentration (mainly TiO2) before cleaning. The nonelectropolished files already possessed higher oxides concentration (TiO2 and NiO) before NaOCl cleaning. NaOCl treatment affects the chemical composition of the surface and, in particular for nonelectropolished instruments, of the bulk exposed through machining marks and fabrication microcracks.

Cutting efficiency of five different types of rotary nickel-titanium instruments.

The purpose of this study was to compare the cutting efficiency of the following rotary nickel-titanium instruments: Alpha-File (Komet, Lemgo, Germany), FlexMaster (VDW, Munich, Germany), Mtwo (VDW, Munich, Germany), ProFile (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland), and RaCe (FKG, La-Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland). New .06/25 and .04/35 instruments were used; sample size was 12 for each group. Cutting efficiency of all 120 instruments was determined in a rotary working motion by means of a computer-driven testing device. Special plastic samples with a cylindrical canal were used, and the maximum penetration depth of the instruments into the lumen was the criterion for cutting efficiency. Statistical analysis was performed by using analysis of variance and post hoc Student-Newman-Keuls test. Out of all .06/25 instruments, Mtwo and RaCe displayed significantly greater penetration depths than all other instruments, whereas for the other size FlexMaster, Mtwo, and RaCe were significantly superior to all other instruments (p < 0.05). For both sizes, the significantly lowest values were obtained by ProFile (p < 0.05). Under the condition of this study, Mtwo and RaCe displayed the greatest cutting efficiency.

Pitting corrosion resistance of nickel-titanium rotary instruments with different surface treatments in seventeen percent ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid and sodium chloride solutions.

This study evaluated the pitting corrosion resistance of nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments with different surface treatments in 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and NaCl solutions. Electropolished RaCe instruments were allocated to group A, non-electropolished RaCe instruments to group B, and physical vapor deposition (PVD)-coated Alpha files to group C (10 instruments per group). Electrochemical measurements were carried out by using a potentiostat for galvanic current measurements. On the basis of electrochemical tests, no localized corrosion problems are to be expected in EDTA. In NaCl, pitting potential occurred at higher values for the electropolished and PVD instruments, indicating an increased corrosion resistance. There appears to be a risk of corrosion for NiTi instruments without surface treatments in contact with NaCl. NiTi files with PVD and electropolishing surface treatments showed an increase corrosion resistance.

Influence of resin-based adhesive root canal fillings on the resistance to fracture of endodontically treated roots: an in vitro preliminary study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to investigate the root reinforcing capability of the resin-based RealSeal. STUDY DESIGN: In two groups (n=36) canals were instrumented with nickel-titanium rotary GTfiles or with hand K-files. Twelve teeth from each group were obturated with lateral compaction using either gutta-percha and AHPlus or RealSeal. The canals of twelve teeth of both groups were instrumented but not filled. Group 3 (n=12) acted as uninstrumented controls. The force required to fracture the roots was measured. ANOVA and Scheffé test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The intact roots were significantly stronger than both groups with instrumented and unobturated roots (P<.05). Between the roots of both groups obturated with RealSeal and the intact roots there were no significant differences (P>.05). The roots obturated with RealSeal were significantly stronger than those obturated with gutta-percha and AHPlus (P<.05). CONCLUSIONS: An obturation with RealSeal significantly increases the fracture resistance of instrumented roots.