Chemical and structural characterization of glass ionomer cements indicated for atraumatic restorative treatment.

Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are restorative materials, which clinical use has increased significantly during the last decade. The aim of the present study was to analyze the chemical constitution and surface morphology of four glass ionomer cements: Maxxion R, VitroFill, Vidrion R and Vitremer. Twelve polyethylene tubes with an internal diameter of 3 and 3 mm in length were prepared, filled and then transferred to a chamber with 95% relative humidity and a temperature of 37°C. The surface morphology of the tested materials was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and main components were investigated by energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX). Scanning electron microscopy revealed irregular and rough external surface. Cracking was not observed. The main constituents were found to be aluminum, silicon, calcium, sodium and fluoride. Phosphorus, sulfur and barium were only observed in Vidrion R, while chlorine were only observed in Maxxion R. Elemental mapping of the outer surface revealed high concentration of aluminum and silicon. Significant irregularities on the surface of the tested materials were observed. The chemical constitution of all GIC was similar.

Analysis of metal contents in Portland Type V and MTA-based cements.

The aim of this study was to determine, by Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS), the concentration levels of 11 metals in Type V gray and structural white PC, ProRoot MTA, and MTA Bio. Samples, containing one gram of each tested cement, were prepared and transferred to a 100 mL Teflon tube with a mixture of 7.0 mL of nitric acid and 21 mL of hydrochloric acid. After the reaction, the mixture was filtered and then volumed to 50 mL of distilled water. For each metal, specific patterns were determined from universal standards. Arsenic quantification was performed by hydride generator. The analysis was performed five times and the data were statistically analyzed at 5% level of significance. Only the cadmium presented concentration levels of values lower than the quantification limit of the device. The AAS analysis showed increased levels of calcium, nickel, and zinc in structural white PC. Type V PC presented the greatest concentration levels of arsenic, chromium, copper, iron, lead, and manganese (P < 0.05). Bismuth was found in all cements, and the lowest concentration levels were observed in Portland cements, while the highest were observed in ProRoot MTA. Both PC and MTA-based cements showed evidence of metals inclusion.

Physicochemical properties and surfaces morphologies evaluation of MTA FillApex and AH plus.

The solubility, pH, electrical conductivity, and radiopacity of AH Plus and MTA FillApex were evaluated. In addition, the surfaces morphologies of the sealers were analyzed by using scanning electron microscopy. For pH test, the samples were immersed in distilled water at different periods of time. The same solution was used for electrical conductivity measurement. The solubility and radiopacity were evaluated according to ANSI/ADA. Statistical analyses were carried out at 5% level of significance. MTA FillApex presented higher mean value for solubility and electrical conductivity. No significant difference was observed in the mean values for pH reading. AH Plus presented higher radiopacity mean values. MTA FillApex presented an external surface with porosities and a wide range of sizes. In conclusion, the materials fulfill the ANSI/ADA requirements when considering the radiopacity and solubility. AH Plus revealed a compact and homogeneous surface with more regular aspects and equal particle sizes.

Age Estimation in Brazilian Adults Using the Pulp/Tooth Ratio of the Maxillary Canine and Mandibular Second Premolar.

(1) Background/Objectives: Accurate determination of chronological age is crucial in legal dental identification. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of different formulas in estimating the age of a Brazilian subpopulation by analyzing the pulp/tooth ratio of the maxillary canine and mandibular second premolar in panoramic and periapical radiographs. (2) Methods: The sample consisted of panoramic and periapical radiographs of 247 individuals. The file of each radiograph was opened in the Adobe Photoshop CS4® program to outline and obtain values in pixels for calculating the pulp/tooth ratio. Statistical analysis was conducted using the SPSS program, with a significance level set at 5%. (3) Results: The interclass correlation coefficient demonstrated excellent intra-observer agreement (0.990-0.999). The determination coefficients (R2) suggested that only 30-35% of the actual age results could be explained by the pulp/tooth ratio. The smallest differences were observed with Cameriere's formula for the mandibular second premolar on panoramic radiographs (+4.1 years). The greatest differences were found with the formulas for the mandibular second premolar in panoramic radiographs of the Korean (+12.5 years) and Portuguese (-12.1 years) populations. (4) Conclusions: The equations employed showed little agreement between the actual age and the estimated age.

Effect of Disinfection Protocols on Bacterial Reduction in Mandibular Molars.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the bacterial reduction effect of disinfection protocols used in lower molars infected by Enterococcus faecalis. METHODS: Eighty extracted lower molars were prepared and inoculated with E. faecalis for 2 months. The teeth were then distributed into 2 control groups (n = 4) and 4 experimental groups (n = 18) in function of the disinfection protocol utilized: G1. WaveOne Gold (WOG), passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) and Ultracal; G2. WOG, PUI and calcium hydroxide (CH); G3. WOG, XP-Endo Finisher (XPF) and Ultracal; G4. WOG, XPF and CH. Bacteriological samples were collected previously (S1), after preparation (S2), final agitation (S3) and intracanal dressing (S4). Microbial growth was assessed according to culture turbidity and UV spectrophotometry. Statistical analyses used the Friedman test for paired samples and Kruskal-Wallis test for non-paired data (p<0.05). RESULTS: No protocol eliminated E. faecalis effectively. The S2, S3 and S4 samples were statistically different from the S1 samples in G1, G2, G3 and G4 (p<0.05). Statistical differences were observed in bacterial reduction between G1 and G2 and G1 and G3 after the intracanal medicament (S4) (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The WOG + PUI + CH disinfection protocol showed higher percentages of bacterial reduction.

9-year follow-up of uncommon cleft palate in Aarskog-Scott syndrome.

Aarskog-Scott syndrome (AAS) is characterized by different facial, skeletal and genital anomalies and may have oral manifestations. A 7-year-old boy was referred to the University General Hospital for treatment of speech difficulties and frequent regurgitation. Characteristics such as a triangle-shaped face, hypertelorism, low-set ears, flattened nose, shawl scrotum and partial syndactylia on hands and feet were observed. Based on these clinical features, the child was diagnosed with AAS. Upon intraoral examination, maxillary atresia and an incomplete cleft palate were observed. The mixed dentition was characterized by extensive coronary destruction of primary teeth and caries lesions on permanent teeth. Here, the case of a 9-year follow-up of this child with uncommon AAS associated with cleft palate is reported. The child was referred to a multidisciplinary team for planning and carrying out the treatment. In the follow-up visit after 9 years from the beginning of the treatment, the child showed greater sociability, with significant improvement in spontaneous speech and pronunciation of phonemes. However, the patient continues until now with articulation and spontaneous speech training. The correction of class II malocclusion, better dental alignment and canine extrusion were achieved. At the moment, the patient uses a nighttime extraoral device, and the treatment continues for dental alignment and prevention of tooth decay. The presence of cleft palate could be coincidental with AAS and may aggravate the prognosis, requiring careful patient monitoring by a multiprofessional team. Key words:Aarskog-Scott syndrome, cleft lip, cleft palate, multidisciplinary treatment.

Method to determine the root canal spatial geometry using an algorithm of the e-Vol DX CBCT software.

This study evaluated a method to determine the spatial geometry of root canal preparation (RCP) using navigation dynamics and a specific algorithm from a new CBCT software (e-Vol DX). CBCT scans of 168 root canals of mandibular molars were acquired before and after RCP, using nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments (ProTaper Next, BioRace, Reciproc Blue, and WaveOne Gold). The spatial geometry of the root canals and the operative risk of disproportional wear of dentinal walls after RCP were evaluated using a new CBCT software. A 3-point scoring system was used after the measuring of cementum/dentin thickness before and after RCP in all root thirds. The root thirds were distributed into three parts of similar sizes, and the scores were categorized at three levels: 1. mild risk (1/3), 2. moderate risk (2/3), 3. severe risk (3/3). These levels were proposed according to the risk of creating disproportionate shapes, thin walls, or perforations. The data were analyzed statistically by Fischer's exact test (α = 5%). There were no significant differences in operative risk among the NiTi engine-driven systems, for the distal or mesial walls of all the root canal thirds (p>0.05). The spatial geometry method to assess operative risk allows clinical planning for a predictable enlargement of the root canal in all root thirds. Based on using a map-reading strategy on root canals in CBCT scans, NiTi engine-driven instruments did not present an increased operative risk during RCPs.

Influence of different agitation techniques on bacterial reduction in curved root canals.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of agitation techniques on bacterial reduction in curved root canals. Eighty human mandibular molars were prepared, inoculated with Enterococcus faecalis and incubated at 37°C for 60 days. Then, specimens were randomly separated into two test groups (n = 36) and two control groups (n = 04) according to agitation technique: Passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI, Irrisonic) and XP-endo Finisher (XPF). Microbial samples were collected before and after instrumentation and after final agitation using sterile paper points. Bacterial growth was analysed by turbidity of culture medium and UV spectrophotometry. The Wilcoxon rank test was used for the paired analysis, while the Mann-Whitney U-test was used for the non-paired analysis. The samples collected after final agitation were significantly different between test groups (p < 0.05). Bacterial reduction was greater in the PUI than in the XPF (p < 0.05) group. The irrigant agitation provided significant bacterial reduction. The use of the PUI showed better results.

Effects of Brown and Green Propolis on Bond Strength of Fiberglass Posts to Root Canal Dentin.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of brown and green propolis on bond strength of the fiberglass posts to root canal dentin, and to compare it with conventional endodontic irrigants. Methods and Materials: Sixty bovine teeth were selected, decoronated and randomly distributed into six groups (n=10), according to the irrigation solution: 0.9% saline solution (Control); 2% chlorhexidine (CHX); 5% malic acid (MA); 0.5% ethanolic extract of brown propolis (BP); 0.25% ethanolic extract of green propolis (GP); 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl). After root canal treatment, fiber posts were cemented into prepared root canals with a self-adhesive resin cement. The roots were cross-sectioned to obtain two discs from each third and submitted to the micro push-out test. Failure patterns were evaluated under optical microscopy. The influence of irrigants agents was analyzed using one-way ANOVA followed by Games-Howell's test (α=0.05). Failure modes were analyzed using Fischer's exact test (α=0.05). Results: There were statistically significant differences among the groups (P<0.05). The control, NaOCl and BP groups showed the highest bond strength with no statistically significant difference between them (P>0.05). Adhesive failure type was the predominant in all groups. Conclusion: Based on this in vitro study, the use of 0.5% brown propolis did not influence the bond strength of fiberglass posts to root canal dentin, while the use of 0.25% green propolis did affect it negatively.

Blooming artifact reduction using different cone-beam computed tomography software to analyze endodontically treated teeth with intracanal posts.

BACKGROUND: The appearance of high-density root obturating materials, such as gutta-percha and intracanal posts, on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans is substantially different from that seen in the specimen. This study evaluated the effectiveness of different CBCT software in the reduction of blooming artifacts when examining teeth with intracanal posts. METHOD: The sample included 42 human single-rooted teeth with two types of posts: G1 - low-fusion alloy posts; G2 - gold alloy posts. CBCT scans were obtained using two scanners, PreXion 3D Elite® and Carestream 9000C 3D®. First, the posts were measured using a digital micrometer (standard reference, control). Post diameters were determined using the Blooming Artifact Reduction (BAR) tool of the e-Vol DX software and of the PreXion3D Image Analysis System. Statistical data were evaluated using the van Der Waerden nonparametric analysis of variance and, after that, normalized data were analyzed using the Tukey test. The level of significance was set at α = 5 %. RESULTS: There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the diameters of intracanal posts on the CT scans when the e-Vol DX was used, or when these results were compared with those obtained using a micrometer. There were significant differences in post diameters determined using the PreXion3D Image Analysis System when compared with the e-Vol DX and the micrometer values (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The use of the e-Vol DX BAR filter eliminated blooming artifacts. There were no dimensional changes in the CBCT images of the low-fusion and gold alloy intracanal posts using the e-Vol DX BAR filter.

Effect of post space preparation drills on the incidence of root dentin defects.

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated the incidence of root dentin defects after the use of different post space preparation (PSP) drills. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-two bovine incisors were selected and obtained 14-mm-long root sections. Twelve roots served as controls with no intervention (G1). The 60 root canals remaining were instrumented using the crown-down technique with the ProTaper Next system and obturated using the lateral condensation technique. Specimens were randomly distributed into 5 groups (n = 12) according to the operative steps performed: G2, root canal instrumentation and filling (I+F); G3, I+F and PSP with Gates-Glidden drills; G4, I+F and PSP with Largo-Peeso reamers; G5, I+F and PSP with Exacto drill; and G6, I+F and PSP with WhitePost drill. Roots were sectioned at 3, 6, 9, and 12 mm from the apex, and digital images were captured. The presence of root dentin defects was recorded. Data were analyzed by the χ2 test, with p < 0.05 considered to indicate statistical significance. RESULTS: Root dentin defects were observed in 39.6% of the root sections. No defects were observed in G1. G5 had significantly more cracks and craze lines than G1, G2, and G3 (p < 0.05), and more fractures than G1, G2, G3, and G4 (p < 0.05). When all root sections were analyzed together, significantly more defects were observed at the 12-mm level than at the 3-mm level (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: PSP drills caused defects in the root dentin. Gates-Glidden drills caused fewer root defects than Largo-Peeso reamers and Exacto drills.

Cytotoxicity of Chelating Agents Used In Endodontics and Their Influence on MMPs of Cell Membranes.

This study evaluated the cytotoxic effect and the ability to inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) of 0.2% chitosan (CH) and 1% acetic acid (AA) compared with 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Cell viability assay was performed according to ISO 10993-5 with mouse fibroblasts (L929). The culture was exposed to 0.2% CH, 1% AA, and 17% EDTA. The chelating agents were evaluated immediately after contact with the cells and after 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h of incubation. Cell viability was analyzed using the 3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Inhibition of the gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was evaluated by gelatin zymography. Different concentrations of CH were evaluated: 50 mM, 5 mM, 0.5 mM, and 0.05 mM. EDTA (0.5 mM) was used as a positive control. The results demonstrated that CH and AA had an initial cytotoxic effect, which decreased after 6 h, 12 h, and 24 h, being statistically similar to EDTA (P > 0.05). Additionally, CH at concentrations of 50 mM, 5 mM, and 0.5 mM had an inhibitory effect on MMP-2 and MMP-9, similar to that of the control with EDTA. The chelating agents had no cytotoxic effects after 24 h. MMP-2 and MMP-9 were inhibited by the experimental solutions.

Evaluation of Selective Physicochemical and Biological Properties of Different Root Canal Sealers.

Introduction: This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition, water solubility, radiopacity, pH, electrical conductivity and cytotoxicity of four different root canal sealers. Methods and Materials: Four materials were tested including an epoxy resin-based sealer (AH-Plus), a calcium silicate-based sealer (MTA Fillapex), a calcium hydroxide-based sealer (Sealapex) and a zinc-oxide-eugenol-based sealer (Endofill). The materials were submitted to energy-dispersive x-ray microanalysis for elemental chemical composition. Solubility and radiopacity were evaluated according to ANSI/ADA. The pH and electrical conductivity were measured at different periods of time. L929 immortalized mouse fibroblast line were used for cytotoxicity evaluation. Statistical analyses were carried out using the ANOVA and Tukey's test. Results: The main elements were found to be silicon and calcium in MTA Fillapex, calcium and bismuth in Sealapex, zirconium and tungsten in AH-Plus and zinc and bismuth in Endofill. Sealapex had the highest value for solubility (P<0.05), AH-Plus showed the highest radiopacity value (P<0.05) while MTA Fillapex had the highest pH and electrical conductivity values (P<0.05). AH-Plus showed the highest rate of cell viability (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results of this in vitro study, it was possible to conclude that Endofill and Sealpex did not meet the requirements for water solubility. The tested sealers were alkaline and showed radiopacity in accordance with ANSI/ADA standards. AH-Plus showed to be less cytotoxic than other tested root canal sealers.

Correlation of periodontal and microbiological evaluations, with serum levels of estradiol and progesterone, during different trimesters of gestation.

Our purpouse was to identify quantitatively and qualitatively the subgingival flora in different gestational trimesters, compared to non-pregnant women; evaluating the correlations between epidemiological characteristics, clinical diagnosis, microbiological findings and levels of estradiol and progesterone. 52 pregnant women divided into 3 groups, according to the gestational trimester and 15 non-pregnant patients, without hormonal contraceptives, were evaluated. Plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD) and clinical attachment level (CAL) were evaluated. Subgingival biofilm samples were processed by the qPCR technique and the serum levels of estradiol and progesterone quantified by chemiluminescence. Clinical diagnosis during gestation was correlated with the total bacterial count. A higher prevalence of Tannerella forsythia (Tf) was identified in first trimester of pregnancy and this periodontopathogen was correlated with the diagnosis of gingivitis among pregnant women. Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) showed a positive correlation with progesterone levels in the first trimester. High prevalence of periodontopathogens was noticed in this population. Clinical diagnosis in gestation was positively correlated with the total amount of bacteria, without influence of the hormonal levels or the epidemiological factors evaluated. The presence of Tf favored occurrence of gingivitis during pregnancy and the progesterone levels in the first trimester enhanced the growth of Pg.

Root perforations: a review of diagnosis, prognosis and materials.

Root perforation results in the communication between root canal walls and periodontal space (external tooth surface). It is commonly caused by an operative procedural accident or pathological alteration (such as extensive dental caries, and external or internal inflammatory root resorption). Different factors may predispose to this communication, such as the presence of pulp stones, calcification, resorptions, tooth malposition (unusual inclination in the arch, tipping or rotation), an extra-coronal restoration or intracanal posts. The diagnosis of dental pulp and/or periapical tissue previous to root perforation is an important predictor of prognosis (including such issues as clinically healthy pulp, inflamed or infected pulp, primary or secondary infection, and presence or absence of intracanal post). Clinical and imaging exams are necessary to identify root perforation. Cone-beam computed tomography constitutes an important resource for the diagnosis and prognosis of this clinical condition. Clinical factors influencing the prognosis and healing of root perforations include its treatment timeline, extent and location. A small root perforation, sealed immediately and apical to the crest bone and epithelial attachment, presents with a better prognosis. The three most widely recommended materials to seal root perforations have been calcium hydroxide, mineral trioxide aggregate and calcium silicate cements. This review aimed to discuss contemporary therapeutic alternatives to treat root canal perforations. Accordingly, the essential aspects for repairing this deleterious tissue injury will be addressed, including its diagnosis, prognosis, and a discussion about the materials actually suggested to seal root canal perforation.

Influence of Cervical Preflaring on the Incidence of Root Dentin Defects.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluated the influence of cervical preflaring on the incidence of root dentin defects after root canal preparation. METHODS: Extracted human maxillary central incisors were selected and allocated to 1 control group and 12 experimental groups (n = 15). Teeth in the control group were left unprepared, whereas the others were prepared using 2 reciprocating single-file systems (Reciproc and WaveOne [WO]), 3 full-sequence rotary systems (ProTaper Universal, ProTaper Next [PTN], and ProFile), and K-files driven by an oscillatory system, with and without cervical preflaring. Roots were then horizontally sectioned at 4, 8, and 12 mm from the apex, stained with 1% methylene blue, and viewed through a stereomicroscope at ×25 magnification. Slices were inspected and the absence/presence of defects (fractures, partial cracks, and craze lines) recorded. Data were analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene tests followed by the Tukey post hoc test at a significance level of P < .05. RESULTS: No root dentin defects were observed in the control group. WO was associated with a significantly higher number of defects than K-files, ProFile, and PTN (P < .05), but was not significantly different from Reciproc or ProTaper Universal (P > .05). Cervical preflaring significantly reduced the incidence of fractures and other defects in the WO and PTN groups (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: All instruments caused root dentin defects, regardless of the enlargement or not of the cervical portion. Cervical preflaring was associated with a lower incidence of defects, mainly in root canals prepared with WO and PTN.

Method to determine the root canal spatial geometry using an algorithm of the e-Vol DX CBCT software

Abstract This study evaluated a method to determine the spatial geometry of root canal preparation (RCP) using navigation dynamics and a specific algorithm from a new CBCT software (e-Vol DX). CBCT scans of 168 root canals of mandibular molars were acquired before and after RCP, using nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments (ProTaper Next, BioRace, Reciproc Blue, and WaveOne Gold). The spatial geometry of the root canals and the operative risk of disproportional wear of dentinal walls after RCP were evaluated using a new CBCT software. A 3-point scoring system was used after the measuring of cementum/dentin thickness before and after RCP in all root thirds. The root thirds were distributed into three parts of similar sizes, and the scores were categorized at three levels: 1. mild risk (1/3), 2. moderate risk (2/3), 3. severe risk (3/3). These levels were proposed according to the risk of creating disproportionate shapes, thin walls, or perforations. The data were analyzed statistically by Fischer's exact test (α = 5%). There were no significant differences in operative risk among the NiTi engine-driven systems, for the distal or mesial walls of all the root canal thirds (p>0.05). The spatial geometry method to assess operative risk allows clinical planning for a predictable enlargement of the root canal in all root thirds. Based on using a map-reading strategy on root canals in CBCT scans, NiTi engine-driven instruments did not present an increased operative risk during RCPs.

Resumo Este estudo avaliou um método para determinar a geometria espacial do preparo do canal radicular (PCR) usando uma dinâmica de navegação e um algoritmo específico do software e-Vol DX. Imagens de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC) de 168 molares inferiores foram adquiridas antes e depois do PCR, usando instrumentos de níquel-titânio (NiTi) (ProTaper Next, BioRace, Reciproc Blue e WaveOne Gold). A geometria espacial dos canais radiculares e o risco operatório de desgaste desproporcional das paredes dentinárias após o preparo foram avaliados usando o software de TCFC e-Vol DX. Um sistema de Score de 3 pontos foi usado após a mensuração da espessura cemento/dentina antes e depois do PCR, em toda extensão dos canais radiculares. Os terços radiculares foram distribuídos em três partes de tamanhos semelhantes, e os Scores foram categorizados em três níveis: 1. risco leve (1/3), 2. risco moderado (2/3), 3. risco severo (3/3). Esses níveis foram propostos de acordo com o risco de criar formas desproporcionais, paredes finas ou perfurações radiculares. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente pelo teste exato de Fischer ((=5%). Não houve diferenças significativas no risco operatório entre os sistemas de NiTi acionados a motor, para as paredes distal ou mesial em todos os terços do canal radicular (p>0,05). O método de geometria espacial para avaliar o risco operatório permite o planejamento clínico para um alargamento previsível do canal radicular em todos os terços radiculares. Com base no uso de uma estratégia de navegação dinâmica de canais radiculares de molares inferiores analisados em imagens de TCFC, os instrumentos de NiTi acionados estudados não apresentaram um aumento do risco operatório durante o preparo dos canais radiculares.

Root Canal Transportation and Centering Ability of Nickel-Titanium Rotary Instruments in Mandibular Premolars Assessed Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), transportation and centralization of different nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments. METHODS: One hundred and twenty eight mandibular premolars were selected and instrumented using the following brands of NiTi files: WaveOne, WaveOne Gold, Reciproc, ProTaper Next, ProTaper Gold, Mtwo, BioRaCe and RaCe. CBCT imaging was performed before and after root canal preparation to obtain measurements of mesial and distal dentin walls and calculations of root canal transportation and centralization. A normal distribution of data was confirmed by the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene tests, and results were assessed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. Statistical significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: ProTaper Gold produced the lowest canal transportation values, and RaCe, the highest. ProTaper Gold files also showed the highest values for centering ability, whereas BioRaCe showed the lowest. No significant differences were found across the different instruments in terms of canal transportation and centering ability (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Based on the methodology employed, all instruments used for root canal preparation of mandibular premolars performed similarly with regard to canal transportation and centering ability.

Assessment of the Amount of Calcium Ions Released after the use of Different Chelating Agents and Agitation Protocols.

BACKGROUND: The main goal of endodontic treatment is to achieve cleaning and shaping prior to the filling process. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate, using atomic absorption spectrometry, the release of Calcium ions after the use of different chelating agents and protocols of agitation. METHOD: Ninety human canine teeth were randomly assigned to one of nine groups (n=10), as follows: 1) 0.2% Chitosan and manual agitation; 2) 0.2% Chitosan and sonic agitation; 3) 0.2% Chitosan and ultrasonic agitation; 4) 17% EDTA and manual agitation; 5) 17% EDTA and sonic agitation; 6) 17% EDTA and ultrasonic agitation; 7) distilled water and manual agitation; 8) distilled water and sonic agitation; 9) distilled water and ultrasonic agitation. Following instrumentation, all chelating substances remained inside the root canal for 3 min. Then the fluid was collected for the identification and quantification of Calcium ions. The amount of Calcium ions released in each group was compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene tests followed by Tukey's post-hoc test. Significance was set at 5%. RESULTS: The groups in which 0.2% Chitosan was used showed the highest concentration of Calcium ions (p<0.05). Concerning the agitation method, ultrasonic agitation showed the greatest values, followed by sonic and manual agitation (all comparisons, p<0.05). CONCLUSION: The present findings suggest that, among the combinations here tested, Chitosan associated with ultrasonic agitation yielded the greatest release of Calcium ions.

The Influence of Cervical Preflaring on the Amount of Apically Extruded Debris after Root Canal Preparation Using Different Instrumentation Systems.

INTRODUCTION: The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of cervical preflaring on the amount of apically extruded debris after root canal preparation using different instrumentation systems. METHODS: One hundred eighty human maxillary central incisors were selected and randomly divided into 12 groups (n = 15). Root canals were instrumented according to manufacturers' instructions using 2 reciprocating single-file systems (Reciproc [VDW, Munich, Germany] and WaveOne [Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland]), 3 full-sequence rotary systems (ProTaper Universal [Dentsply Maillefer], ProTaper Next [Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK], and ProFile [Dentsply Maillefer]), and K-files (Dentsply Maillefer) driven by an oscillatory system with and without cervical preflaring. Bidistilled water was used as irrigant. Apically extruded debris was collected in preweighed glass vials using the Myers and Montgomery method. After drying, the mean weight of debris was determined using a microbalance. Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Levene tests followed by the Tukey post hoc test were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: K-files produced significantly more debris than all of the other systems (P < .05). For all systems, cervical preflaring reduced the amount of apically extruded debris when compared with no cervical preflaring (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: All of the systems extruded debris, irrespective of the preparation technique used (with or without cervical preflaring). Cervical preflaring was associated with the extrusion of smaller quantities of apical debris.