Biological response to endodontic treatment in one versus two-visit: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies.

OBJECTIVES: To perform a systematic review of animal studies that compared the histopathological characteristics between teeth with apical periodontitis after endodontic treatment in one or two visits. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This systematic review was registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) - CRD42022340849. Studies were collected from PubMed/MEDLINE, LILACS, EMBASE, Livivo, SciELO, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library and manual and gray literature searches. Animal studies that evaluated histological characteristics after endodontic treatment of teeth with apical periodontitis in one or two visits were included. Risk of bias analysis of the included studies was performed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool. Data synthesis of the included studies with quantitative data was performed, and meta-analysis was conducted with the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software, using the random effects model and odds ratio (OR). RESULTS: Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria (Kappa = 0.891). Meta-analyses indicated values in inflammatory infiltrate intensity with effect size of 5.5% (95% CI: 0.020-0.148; p < 0.001), periodontal ligament thickness: 25.6% (95% CI: 0.134-0.487; p < 0.001), dentin resorption: 13% (95% CI: 0.015-1.141; p = 0.066), cementum resorption: 7.1% (95% CI: 0.015-0.325; p = 0.001), bone resorption: 1.4% (95% CI: 0.002-0.130; p < 0.001), mineralized tissue resorption: 42.8% (95% CI: 0.110-1.671; p = 0.222), biological apical sealing: 13.1% (95% CI: 0.055-0.314; p < 0.001), and presence of microorganisms: 10.3% (95% CI: 0.014-0.747; p = 0.025). CONCLUSIONS: When considering animal studies, the two-visit endodontic treatment, using calcium hydroxide-based intracanal medication, resulted in better biological repair characteristics. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: A two-visit endodontic treatment with calcium hydroxide-based intracanal medication yields superior histopathological outcomes.

Referred pain is associated with greater odontogenic spontaneous pain and a heightened pain sensitivity in patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis.

BACKGROUND: Symptomatic irreversible pulpitis often results in heightened reactions to thermal stimuli such as pain evoked by a cold stimulus, and spontaneous odontogenic pain (unprovoked pain). OBJECTIVE: This study primarily compared the clinical manifestations of odontogenic spontaneous pain and pain provoked by cold stimulus specifically focusing on their sensory discriminative characteristics (intensity, duration and quality) between symptomatic irreversible pulpitis patients with and without referred pain. METHODS: Twenty-three patients with symptomatic irreversible pulpitis with referred pain and 12 patients without referred pain were included in this cross-sectional study. The following outcomes were assessed: odontogenic spontaneous pain and its descriptors; pain evoked by cold stimulus and qualitative sensory testing before and after local anaesthesia; referred pain location; use of analgesic medication; complementary anaesthesia efficacy. T-test, chi-squared and McNemar tests were applied to the data (p < .50). RESULTS: Patients with referred pain presented a greater odontogenic pain intensity (p < .05) when considered the average of the last 24 h. These patients also showed higher pain rating and pain descriptors (p < .05). Intensity and duration of the pain evoked by cold stimulus in the non-affected contralateral tooth at baseline were higher for patients with referred pain (p < .05). CONCLUSION: Symptomatic irreversible pulpitis patients with referred pain present greater odontogenic spontaneous pain and a heightened pain sensitivity. Therefore, patients with referred pain seem more complex from a pain severity perspective, supporting the clinical utility of discriminating symptomatic irreversible pulpitis with and without referred pain.

Publication trends of the Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry: A bibliometric analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The Journal of Esthetic and Restorative Dentistry (JERD) stands out as one of the most prominent international journals publishing research in esthetic dentistry. This study analyzed articles published by JERD since the year 2000 through bibliometric analysis. METHODOLOGY: The search was conducted in January 2024 using Scopus. The following data were extracted from the articles: citation count, year, language, access type, funding agency, study design, theme (general and specific), country, institution, authors, and keywords. The VOSviewer software was used to generate collaborative network maps among the data. Dimensions were consulted to measure altmetric data. Google Trends was used to investigate the global popularity of JERD research. RESULTS: A total of 1394 articles were included in this analysis. Citation count ranged from 0 to 625 (average: 16.9). Articles were published between 2000 and 2023. Laboratory studies were more prevalent (n = 850), with the most investigated general theme being restorative procedures (n = 882), and the highlighted specific theme being the use of composite resin (n = 327). The United States had the highest number of articles (n = 640), with the diverse distribution among other countries. The most common keyword was "cad/cam" (n = 63). VOSviewer demonstrated high collaboration among countries. Intense mentions were identified primarily on Facebook. According to Google Trends, Egypt was the country that searched for JERD the most. CONCLUSIONS: JERD exhibited significant growth in the number of published articles and their diversity by topics, types, origin (country), number of citations, and impact factor. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The JERD is a journal that publishes studies influencing clinical practice. Identifying the key characteristics of this journal is essential for charting future paths.

To flat or not to flat? Exploring the impact of flat-side design on rotary instruments using a comprehensive multimethod investigation.

AIM: To assess the influence of a flat-side design on the geometry, metallurgy, mechanical performance and shaping ability of a novel nickel-titanium rotary instrument. METHODOLOGY: Sixty-five new 25-mm flat-side rotary instruments (size 25, taper 0.04) and their nonflat-side prototypes (n = 65) were assessed for major deformations and examined regarding macroscopic and microscopic design, determination of nickel and titanium elements ratio, measurement of phase transformation temperature and evaluation of mechanical performance parameters including time/cycles to fracture, maximum torque, angle of rotation, maximum bending and buckling strengths and cutting ability. Additionally, unprepared canal areas, volume of hard tissue debris and percentage reduction of dentine thickness were calculated for each tested instrument after preparing mesial canals of mandibular molars (n = 12), using micro-CT imaging. Statistical analyses were performed using the U-Mann-Whitney test and independent Student t-test (α = 5%). RESULTS: The number of spirals (n = 8) and blade direction (clockwise) were similar between both flat and nonflat instruments, whilst the helical angles were equivalent (⁓25°). Flat-instruments showed inconsistencies in the homogeneity of the gold colour on the flat-side surface, blade discontinuity, and incomplete and variable S-shaped cross-sections. The titanium-to-nickel ratios were equivalent, but significant differences in the R-phase finish and austenitic start phase transformation temperatures were observed between the flat and nonflat-side instruments. The flat-side instruments demonstrated superior cutting ability compared to the nonflat instruments, as well as, significantly lower values for time to fracture, rotation to fracture and maximum torque to fracture (p < .001). No statistical difference was observed between tested instruments regarding angle of rotation (p = .437), maximum bending (p = .152) and buckling load (p = .411). Preparation protocols using flat and nonflat instruments did not show any statistically significant differences (p > .05). All flat-side instruments exhibited deformation after shaping procedures. CONCLUSIONS: The flat-side instrument showcased enhanced cutting ability compared to its nonflat counterpart. However, it exhibited inferior performance in terms of time, rotation and maximum torque to fracture, along with distinct phase transformation temperatures. No differences were observed in the titanium-to-nickel ratios, angle of rotation, maximum bending, buckling load, preparation time, percentage of untouched canal walls, volume of hard tissue debris and percentage reduction of dentine thickness.

Impact of kinematics on the efficiency and safety of an engine-driven file for glide path preparation in MB2 canals of maxillary molars.

AIM: To evaluate the influence of different kinematics on the efficiency and safety of an engine-driven file for glide path preparation in second mesiobuccal canals (MB2) of maxillary molars. In addition, the torsional resistance of the file was assessed after use. METHODOLOGY: Thirty-six maxillary first and second molars with two canals in the mesiobuccal root were selected and the anatomy of the canals was verified by micro-CT. The teeth were divided into 4 groups (n = 9) according to the kinematics used for glide path preparation: continuous rotation (CR), 30°/150° reciprocation (REC 30°/150°), 30°/90° reciprocation (REC 30°/90°), and 90° optimum glide path motion (OGP 90°). The duration of the procedure, number of canals in which the file reached the full working length (RFWL), canal volume before and after the procedure, rate of file fracture, and file torsional strength after use were evaluated. The ANOVA and Tukey tests or Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: No significant differences among the groups were found for procedure duration, success at reaching the FWL, distance from the file to apex, and number of fractured files (P > 0.05). The CR group showed a significant decrease in rotation angle compared with REC 90° and OGP 90° groups (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in canal volume among the groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The type of kinematics used did not affect the efficiency, success rate, and shaping ability of the file during glide path preparation. CR seems to induce more torsional stress than the other kinematics. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The glide path preparation of narrow canals such as the MB2 is difficult and accidents such as file fracture may occur. This study showed that reciprocation with different file angulations can be safer during this challenging stage.

Effectiveness of a new endodontic irrigation system for removing smear layer and dissolving simulated organic matter.

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to evaluate the potential for the dissolution of organic tissue in areas of simulated complexity and cleaning of root canal walls of the new iVac® endodontic irrigation system. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Thirty mandibular premolars were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy before and after biomechanical preparation. Then, they were distributed according to the final irrigation protocol into groups with conventional irrigation, ultrasonic agitation with metallic insert (UA), and iVac® system, and new photomicrographs were obtained. For tissue dissolution analysis, glass capillaries filled with catgut were attached to the cervical and apical thirds of twenty-one prototyped upper incisors. They were weighed before and after the previously mentioned irrigation protocols. The data were statistically compared with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS: The final irrigation provided greater cleaning of the root canal walls in the cervical, middle, and apical thirds of the root canals (P < 0.05), with no statistically significant difference between UA and iVac®, regardless of the analyzed thirds. Both ultrasonic irrigation protocols dissolved a significantly greater volume than the conventional irrigation protocol (P < 0.05), with no difference between the two protocols (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The iVac® system showed root canal wall cleaning and tissue dissolution similar to UA with a metallic insert, and both were superior to conventional irrigation. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The new irrigation system iVac is more effective than conventional irrigation and has similar root canal wall cleaning and tissue dissolution to UA.

Influence of conservative endodontic access cavities on instrumentation of oval-shaped straight root canals.

AIM: To evaluate the influence of the design of endodontic access cavities on the percentage of unprepared areas of canal walls and flexural fatigue of instruments activated by reciprocating movement in oval-shaped straight root canals of extracted teeth. METHODOLOGY: Forty-two mandibular incisors with oval canals were scanned by a microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) device for homogeneous selection and distribution of the samples. Then, the teeth were divided into two groups (n = 21) according to the design of access cavity being tested: ultraconservative endodontic access cavity (UltraAC) and traditional access cavity. The canals were accessed with the aid of a surgical microscope, instrumented with the WaveOne Gold Medium system and irrigated with 2.5% NaOCl and 17% EDTA. The unprepared areas of the canal wall were analysed by overlaying images before and after instrumentation and expressed as percentages. micro-CT data were analysed using t-test, Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests. The endodontic instruments used during instrumentation were subjected to static flexural fatigue testing using an artificial stainless steel canal with a 60° angle of curvature and a radius of 5 mm, located 5 mm from the tip of the instrument. The instruments were activated until fracture occurred, and the time in seconds for the fracture was recorded using a digital timer. The number of cycles to fracture was calculated and analysed statistically. For flexural fatigue data, an anova test complemented by a Tukey range test was used. The significance level of 5% was used for all analyses. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the groups related to unprepared areas by the instrument during canal preparation (p > .05). The difference in flexural fatigue resistance between the groups was not significant. CONCLUSION: The use of UltraAC did not interfere with the canal instrumentation of extracted mandibular incisors with straight and oval canals. There was no difference in the flexural fatigue resistance of the instruments in relation to access cavity design.

Effect of obturation technique on penetration of calcium silicate-based sealer into dentinal tubules after endodontic retreatment of mandibular premolars.

OBJECTIVE: Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) was used to investigate the penetration of endodontic sealers into the dentinal tubules after retreatment using two different obturation techniques. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty mandibular premolars were prepared up to instrument F3 (ProTaper Universal, Dentsply) and filled with Endofill using the single cone technique. The canals were retreated using Mtwo instruments. Reobturation was performed with the Bio-C sealer mixed with a fluorophore dye (Fluo-3) using either the lateral condensation technique (group LC) or the single cone technique (group SC) (n = 15). Teeth were sectioned 2, 4, and 6 mm from the apex and analyzed with CLSM to assess the penetration of the sealer into the canal perimeter and the maximum depth of penetration of the sealer into the dentinal tubules. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and the Student-t and Holm-Sidak tests. RESULTS: In the apical segment, the penetrated perimeter was significantly higher in the LC group than in the SC group (p < 0.05); no significant difference was found in the middle and cervical segments (p > 0.05). In terms of penetration depth, no significant differences were found for any of the segments studied (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The LC technique promoted a higher percentage of canal circumference penetrated by the sealer than the SC technique in the apical segment after endodontic retreatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: CLSM demonstrated that the LC technique promoted a higher percentage of canal perimeter penetrated by the Bio-C sealer than the SC technique in the apical segment of mandibular premolars after retreatment.

Evaluation of foramen locating accuracy of an endodontic motor integrated with electronic foramen employing optimal glide path kinematics.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of the auto apical function in the maintenance of the apical limit of instrumentation during glide path procedures when associated to OGP kinematics of Tri Auto ZX2, compared to the continuous rotation of the same motor, as well as Root ZX II and VDW Gold. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-eight extracted human mandibular single-rooted premolars were selected. After endodontic access, cervical pre-flaring was performed using size 30, 0.10 taper rotary instruments, and the apical foramen size was standardized to 200 µm. Teeth were randomly divided into four groups (n = 12) according to the device and kinematics. For all the groups, the Auto Apical Stop function (AAS) was set to the 0.0 mark. Glide path instruments size 25, .01 taper were activated inside the canals until the apical limit was reached. Then, the files were fixed with cyanoacrylate to the teeth and decoupled from the equipment. Data were statistically analyzed in GraphPad Prism 6.0 software with the significance set at 5% (Kruskal-Wallis tests). RESULTS: There was no difference in the mean deviation between the groups. No significant difference was found among the groups when the distributions and percentages of differences between the file tip and the apical foramen were compared (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The use of auto apical function at the 0.0 mark of all tested devices provided an adequate control of the apical limit during glide path preparation. Foramen locating accuracy of Tri Auto ZX2 in OGP kinematics was similar to those of Tri Auto ZX2, Root ZX II, and VDW Gold in continuous kinematics. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Clinical strategies in canal negotiation and glide path as OGP motion associated to electronic foramen locators could reduce iatrogenic risk of deviation and file fractures and create an easier initial preparation to facilitate endodontic procedures.

Effect of association of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and antibiotic agents with calcium hydroxide pastes on their cytotoxicity and biocompatibility.

OBJECTIVES: Evaluate the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of calcium hydroxide paste [Ca (OH)2] associated with 5% diclofenac sodium, ibuprofen, or amoxicillin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pre-osteoblast-like cells were cultivated and the MTT test was used to determine the cytotoxicity of the paste extracts after time intervals of 24, 48, 72 h, and 7 days. Tubes containing Ca (OH)2 pastes associated with the drugs and empty tubes were implanted in subcutaneous tissue of 30 rats. After 7 and 30 days, the specimens were removed and submitted to histological analysis. The data obtained were submitted to Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (p ≤ 0.05). RESULTS: All the Ca (OH)2 pastes promoted cell viability after all periods. At 7 days, there was greater inflammatory tissue reaction adjacent to the implants. At 30 days, there was a significant reduction in the number of inflammatory cells, and increase in fibroblasts in all groups. In this period, a lower number of inflammatory cells and a higher number of fibroblasts were observed in the capsules adjacent to the association with diclofenac, when compared with the other mixtures (p ≤ 0.05); the capsule thickness was greater at 7 days than at 30 days. CONCLUSIONS: The Ca (OH)2 pastes associated with the drugs were not cytotoxic and presented biocompatibility after implantation in rat subcutaneous tissues. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Ca (OH)2 pastes with anti-inflammatory or antibiotic may be clinical alternatives as intracanal medication to reduce resistant microorganisms in root canal system.

Influence of cervical preflaring and root canal preparation on the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth.

BACKGROUND: Evaluate the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth after cervical preflaring and root canal preparation and to assess the volume of the root canal and the amount of remaining root dentin before and after cervical preflaring. METHODS: Forty-four mandibular incisors were selected using micro-CT scanning and distributed into 4 groups (n = 11) according to the instrument used for cervical preflaring: control group - no cervical preflaring; Gates Glidden - burs size #2 and #3; WXN - 25.07 Navigator instrument; and Easy - 25.08 ProDesign S instrument. Coronal opening was performed, and the canals were prepared with Wave One Gold Primary and filled with an epoxy-resin based sealer and gutta-percha cones. Micro-CT scans were performed before and after root canal instrumentation. All images were reconstructed and assessed for the thickness of mesial and distal root dentin at 3 mm and 5 mm from the cement -enamel junction and for the volume of cervical portion of the canal after preparation. Fracture resistance test was performed applying compressive loads at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min, applied on the palatal aspect of specimens at 135° along the long axis of the tooth. The data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test (P = .05). RESULTS: Cervical preflaring and canal preparation reduced the dentin thickness (P < .05) and increased the canal volume (P < .05) in all groups at 3 mm an 5 mm. Cervical preflaring with Gates Gliden burs reduced the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: All instruments reduced the dentin thickness and increased the canal volume in the cervical at 3 mm and 5 mm. Gates Glidden reduced fracture resistance of mandibular incisors submitted to cervical preflaring, whereas NiTi instruments did not. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Cervical preflaring assumes particular importance previously to the root canal preparation because it minimizes the occurrence of operative accidents, and permits more accurate determination of working length and the apical diameter.

Comparison of efficiency of the retreatment procedure between Wave One Gold and Wave One systems by Micro-CT and confocal microscopy: an in vitro study.

INTRODUCTION: To compare, by Micro-CT and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), the ability of the Wave One Gold and Wave One systems to remove filling material from mesial canals of mandibular molars, effective time spent; quantity of extruded material, and percentage of sealer in the dentinal tubules after retreatment and re-obturation procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ten first mandibular molars (n = 20 mesial canals) were prepared and filled with gutta-percha and Endofill sealer mixed with Rhodamine B dye using the single cone technique. After 7 days, the canals were scanned using a high-definition micro-computer tomography with 19-mm voxel size and divided into two groups (n = 10) according to the system used in retreatment: group 1, Wave One (WO), and group 2, Wave One Gold (WG). After removing filling material with the primary file of each system, the WO 40/.08 and WG 35/.06 files were used. After using each file, a new scanning was performed and the residual filling material and extruded filling material were measured. The effective time spent to remove the canal filling was measured after each instrument. After retreatment, the teeth were re-obturated with gutta-percha and AH Plus sealer mixed with fluorescein dye using the single-cone technique. The roots were sectioned at 2, 4 and 6 mm and analysed by CLSM to measure the percentage of remaining sealer and the sealer of the new root canal filling. The data were statistically compared (P < 0.05). RESULTS: Both systems presented a similar volume of filling material remaining in the canals after the use of the two instruments, similar residual and new material in the dentinal tubules, and similar extrusion of material (P > 0.05). When using WO 25, the operator spent significantly less effective time than when using WG 25 (P < 0.05); however, use of WG 35 and WO 40 required a similar time to remove filling material from the canals (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Neither of the two systems removed all the filling material. The WG system presented similar ability in removing filling and extruded material in comparison with WO system. The effective time spent was shorter for WO 25 than for WG 25. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Wave One Gold can be an alternative to perform retreatment considering that in comparison with Wave One, there was no difference in filling material removal capacity and extruded materials. There was only difference in the effective time spent, in which the operator spent more time with WG 25 than with WO 25.

Effect of temperature on the cyclic fatigue resistance of thermally treated reciprocating instruments.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of body temperature on the cyclic fatigue resistance of different NiTi alloys used for the manufacturing of Reciproc Blue R25 (RB 25.08; VDW, Munich, Germany), X1 Blue File 25 (X1 25.06; MK Life Medical and Dental Products, Porto Alegre, Brazil) and WaveOne Gold Primary (WOG 25.07; Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty instruments of the RB 25.08, X1 25.06 and WOG 25.07 systems were used (n = 20). Cyclic fatigue tests were performed at room temperature (20° ± 1 °C) and at body temperature (37° ± 1 °C). The instruments were reciprocated until fracture occurred in an artificial stainless steel canal with a 60° angle and a 5-mm radius of curvature. The time to fracture (TTF) was recorded. Also, the number of cycles to fracture (NCF) was calculated. Data were analysed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's tests for inter-group comparison at both temperatures and for the reduction of cyclic fatigue at body temperature. For intra-group comparison at the different temperatures, the unpaired t test was used. RESULTS: The cyclic fatigue test at 20 °C showed that RB 25.08 and X1 25.06 presented significantly higher TTF and NCF than WOG 25.07 (P < 0.05). At 37 °C, all groups presented significant reduction of TTF and NCF (P < 0.05). RB 25.08 presented significant higher TTF than WOG 25.07 (P < 0.05). Regarding the NCF, there was no significant difference among the groups (P > 0.05). The WOG 25.07 presented the lowest percentage reduction of cyclic fatigue (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The body temperature treatment caused a marked reduction of the cyclic fatigue resistance for all reciprocating instruments tested. The RB 25.08 and X1 25.06 systems presented similar results at both temperatures tested. However, WOG 25.07 presented the lowest percentage reduction in fatigue resistance at body temperature. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The cyclic fatigue resistance of NiTi reciprocating instruments has been evaluated at room temperature. However, the fatigue resistance significantly decreases upon exposure to body temperature, which could affect the mechanical behaviour of the NiTi instruments during root canal preparation.

Influence of ultrasonic agitation on bond strength, marginal adaptation, and tooth discoloration provided by three coronary barrier endodontic materials.

OBJECTIVES: The effect of ultrasonic agitation (UA) on bond strength and adaptation of cervical plugs prepared with MTA Angelus (MTA), MTA Repair HP (MTAHP), and Biodentine (BIO) was evaluated. Dentin discoloration caused by the materials/treatment was also assessed. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-two single rooted teeth were divided into six groups depending on the materials/treatment. After cervical plug preparation, dentin discs were excised for the push-out test; additional discs were analyzed under the confocal microscope to determine adaptation (gaps occurrence). For dentin discoloration analysis (ΔE), blocks of bovine incisors had cavities prepared and filled with the materials/treatment (from 7 to 180 days). RESULTS: Both bond strength and adaptation were positively influenced by UA (P < 0.05). Comparison between materials showed an advantage for BIO when compared to MTAHP (P < 0.05). The best and worst results were provided by BIO/UA (12.66 MPa and 1.87%) and MTAHP (2.54 MPa and 28.58%), respectively. For ΔE, significant differences were observed throughout the periods. Just the MTA without UA exhibited noticeable discoloration at 180 days (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: UA favored a better adaptation of the materials to the dentin root, resulting in higher bond strength and adaptation of the materials to the root canal walls. Moreover, UA reduced MTA discoloration, keeping it imperceptible over the period evaluated. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The better adaptation and higher bond strength provided by UA can be considered clinically relevant due to the importance of maintaining blood clot integrity and the possible esthetic compromise provided by reparative materials when used as coronary barrier in regenerative procedures.

Cyclic fatigue and torsional strength of three different thermally treated reciprocating nickel-titanium instruments.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the cyclic and torsional fatigue resistance of the reciprocating single-file systems Reciproc Blue 25.08 (VDW GmbH, Munich, Germany), Prodesign R 25.06 (Easy Dental Equipment, Belo Horizonte, Brazil), and WaveOne Gold 25.07 (Dentsply/Tulsa Dental Specialties, Tulsa, OK, USA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty reciprocating instruments of the systems Reciproc Blue R25 (RB #25 .08 taper), Prodesign R (PDR #25 .06 taper), and WaveOne Gold (WOG #25 .07 taper) (n = 20) were used. Cyclic fatigue resistance testing was performed by measuring the time to failure in an artificial stainless steel canal with a 60° angle of curvature and a 5-mm radius located 5 mm from the tip (n = 10). The torsional test (ISO 3630-1) evaluated the torque and angle of rotation at failure of new instruments (n = 10) in the portion 3 mm from the tip. The fractured surface of each fragment was also observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In addition, a supplementary examination was performed to measure the cross-sectional area of each instrument 3 and 5 mm from the tip. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey's test, and the level of significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: The cyclic fatigue resistance values of PDR 25.06 were significantly higher (P < 0.05). RB 25.08 showed higher fatigue resistance than WOG 25.07 (P < 0.05). The torsional test showed that PDR 25.06 had lower torsional strength (P < 0.05). No differences were observed between RB 25.08 and WOG 25.07 (P > 0.05). PDR 25.06 showed higher angular rotation values than RB 25.08 and WOG 25.07 (P < 0.05). RB 25.08 presented higher angular rotation than WOG 25.07 (P < 0.05). The cross-sectional area analysis showed that PDR 25.06 presented the smallest cross-sectional areas at 3 and 5 mm from the tip (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: PDR 25.06 presented the highest cyclic fatigue resistance and angular rotation until fracture compared to RB 25.08 and WOG 25.07. In addition, RB 25.08 and WOG 25.07 had higher torsional strength than PDR 25.06. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In endodontic practice, thermally treated reciprocating instruments have been used for the root canal preparation of curved and constricted canals; therefore, these instruments should present high flexibility and suitable torsional strength to minimize the risk of instrument fracture.

Laser therapy as an adjunct in the treatment of sodium hypochlorite extrusion through a root perforation: a case report.

Accidental sodium hypochlorite extrusion can occur during endodontic irrigation procedures. The symptoms appear immediately and include severe pain, swelling, and probable tissue necrosis adjacent to the root of the treated tooth. Treatment of sodium hypochlorite extrusion involves immediate and copious saline irrigation to neutralize the area and prescription of analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic medications. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) might be useful as an adjuvant treatment for damaged soft tissues to improve healing. This case report describes the treatment of accidental extrusion of 1% sodium hypochlorite through a root canal perforation in a mandibular incisor during endodontic treatment. The extrusion caused minor swelling within the mentolabial sulcus and a large area of necrosis in the gingivolabial mucosa and right edentulous premolar area. Conventional treatment was performed in association with LLLT. Clinical and radiographic examinations after 6 months showed complete healing of the necrotic area without paresthesia and the repair of apical tissues.

Evaluation of Influence of Widening Apical Preparation of Root Canals on Efficiency of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid Agitation Protocols: Study by Scanning Electron Microscopy.

AIM: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of widening the apical root canal preparation (RCP) on the efficiency of different ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) agitation protocols on smear layer removal: EDTA; EDTA + Easy Clean in rotary movement (ECROT); EDTA + Easy Clean in reciprocating movement (ECREC); and EDTA + Passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI). MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 80 mandibular premolars had their crowns sectioned and then were divided into two groups according to widening: size 25 or 40, 0.08 taper. Sequentially they were once again allocated to subgroups according to the agitation protocol performing eight experimental groups (n = 10). Ten additional teeth were prepared for controls (C+/C-). The specimens were then submitted to the cleaning protocols and thereafter cleaved and microphotographed by variable pressure scanning electron microscopy (SEM) at previously determined points along their root thirds (750*). Scores were attributed to the images, and data were analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis, Student-Newman-Keuls and Friedman tests. RESULTS: A higher widening was observed to have a positive influence on cleaning efficiency offering significant differences in global and apical third evaluations (p < 0.05). Relative to the agitation, significant differences were observed mainly in the apical third, with PUI and ECROT providing the best results (p < 0.05); no difference for C+ was observed when higher widening was employed. CONCLUSION: A greater widening of the apical third provided a significant improvement in the action of the agitation/activation protocols. Moreover, the PUI and ECROT activation methods were shown to be superior to the use of EDTA solely, particularly in the apical third. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The findings of this study reinforce the need for clinical use of additional methods to complement cleaning. Therefore, it is important for professionals to have knowledge and command of these protocols to obtain more satisfactory results.

Experimental maxillary sinus augmentation using a highly bioactive glass ceramic.

Physicochemical characteristics of a biomaterial directly influence its biological behavior and fate. However, anatomical and physiological particularities of the recipient site also seem to contribute with this process. The present study aimed to evaluate bone healing of maxillary sinus augmentation using a novel bioactive glass ceramic in comparison with a bovine hydroxyapatite. Bilateral sinus augmentation was performed in adult male rabbits, divided into 4 groups according to the biomaterial used: BO-particulate bovine HA Bio-Oss(®) (BO), BO+G-particulate bovine HA + particulate autogenous bone graft (G), BS-particulate glass ceramic (180-212 µm) Biosilicate(®) (BS), and BS+G-particulate glass ceramic + G. After 45 and 90 days, animals were euthanized and the specimens prepared to be analyzed under light and polarized microscopy, immunohistochemistry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and micro-computed tomography (µCT). Results revealed different degradation pattern between both biomaterials, despite the association with bone graft. BS caused a more intense chronic inflammation with foreign body reaction, which led to a difficulty in bone formation. Besides this evidence, SEM and µCT confirmed direct contact between newly formed bone and biomaterial, along with osteopontin and osteocalcin immunolabeling. Bone matrix mineralization was late in BS group but became similar to BO at day 90. These results clearly indicate that further studies about Biosilicate(®) are necessary to identify the factors that resulted in an unfavorable healing response when used in maxillary sinus augmentation.

Effect of ultrasonic tip and root-end filling material on bond strength.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate the bond strength of three root-end filling materials (MTAA-MTA Angelus, MTAS-experimental MTA Sealer, and ZOE- zinc oxide and eugenol cement) in retrograde preparations performed with different ultrasonic tips (CVD, Trinity, and Satelec). MATERIALS AND METHOD: Ninety 2-mm root sections from single-rooted human teeth were used. The retrograde cavities were prepared by using the ultrasonic tips, coupled to a device for position standardization. The specimens were randomly divided into nine groups: CVD MTAA; CVD MTAS; CVD ZOE; Trinity MTAA; Trinity MTAS; Trinity ZOE; Satelec MTAA; Satelec MTAS; Satelec ZOE. Each resin disc/dentin/root-end filling material was placed in the machine to perform the push-out test. The specimens were examined in a stereomicroscope to evaluate the type of failure. Data were submitted to statistical analysis using ANOVA and Tukey tests (α = 0.05). RESULTS: The highest bond strength was observed for the CVD tip irrespective of the material used (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference for the Trinity TU-18 diamond and S12 Satelec tips (P > 0.05). MTAA and MTAS showed highest bond strength. The most common type of failure was adhesion between the filling material and dentin wall, except for ZOE, where mixed failure was predominant. CONCLUSIONS: The CVD tip favored higher bond strength of the root-end filling materials. MTA Angelus and experimental MTAS presented bond strength to dentin prepared with ultrasonic tips. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Root-end preparation with the CVD tip positively influences the bond strength of root-end filling materials. MTA Angelus and experimental MTAS present bond strength to be used as root-end filling materials.

Impact of different agitation methods on smear layer cleaning of mesial canals with accentuated curvature.

Objectives: This study evaluated the impact of different methods of irrigant agitation on smear layer removal in the apical third of curved mesial canals of 3 dimensionally (D) printed mandibular molars. Materials and Methods: Sixty 3D-printed mandibular second molars were used, presenting a 70° curvature and a Vertucci type II configuration in the mesial root. A round cavity was cut 2 mm from the apex using a trephine of 2 mm in diameter, 60 bovine dentin disks were made, and a smear layer was formed. The dentin disks had the adaptation checked in the apical third of the teeth with wax. The dentin disks were evaluated in environmental scanning electron microscope before and after the following irrigant agitation methods: G1(PIK Ultrasonic Tip), G2 (Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation with Irrisonic- PUI), G3 (Easy Clean), G4 (HBW Ultrasonic Tip), G5 (Ultramint X Ultrasonic tip), and G6 (conventional irrigation-CI) (n = 10). All groups were irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. Results: All dentin disks were 100% covered by the smear layer before treatment, and all groups significantly reduced the percentage of the smear layer after treatment. After the irrigation protocols, the Ultra-X group showed the lowest coverage percentage, statistically differing from the conventional, PIK, and HBW groups (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference among Ultramint X, PUI-Irrisonic, and Easy Clean (p > 0.05). None of the agitation methods could remove the smear layer altogether. Conclusions: Ultramint X resulted in the most significant number of completely clean specimens.