Micro-CT Assessment of Filling Removal Effectiveness in the Apical Third of Curved Canals with Different Types of Anatomy.

Introduction: The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of filling removal material from the apical third of curved mesial root canals of mandibular molars. Reciprocating instrumentation followed by additional rotary instrumentation with instruments made of alloys with different heat treatments was evaluated. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six mesial roots of mandibular molars were divided into two groups: Group Class IV consisted of 16 roots with two independent canals, and Group Class II consisted of 20 roots with two canals that merged into one at their apical level. Each of these two groups were further divided into two subgroups, according to the additional rotary instrument used after the reciprocating instrumentation: Group RH and Group RM for Hyflex and Mtwo, respectively. After each procedural step, the roots were scanned by micro-tomography. After each step of filling removal, the Wilcoxon matched pair test and the Mann-Whitney test were used for the evaluation between groups. The significance level adopted was 5%. Results: Significant differences were observed between groups with different Class II and Class IV anatomies, regarding filling removal after Reciproc (P<0.05). After the use of an additional rotary instrumentation, no differences were observed between the two groups (P>0.05). Conclusions: In the apical third of mesial roots of mandibular molars with Class II anatomy, an additional rotary instrumentation was shown to be necessary for improving the removal of filling material after using the single-file reciprocating instrumentation technique.

Final irrigation protocols can be used to promote stable long-term bond strength of AH Plus to dentin

Abstract Irrigation solutions might affect dentin surface characteristics and, consequently, endodontic sealers adhesion. Objective This study analyzed the effect of different final irrigation protocols on push-out bond strength (BS) of AH Plus to dentin seven days and 20 months after obturation. Scanning electron micrographs were obtained from the dentin surface of one sample/group after final irrigation. Methodology Canals of bovine incisors were instrumented and received final irrigation with (n=21): G1 - 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) + distilled water; G2 - 2.5% NaOCl + 17% EDTA; G3 - 2.5% NaOCl + 17% EDTA + 2.5% NaOCl; G4 - 2.5% NaOCl + 17% EDTA + 2% chlorhexidine (CHX); G5 - mixture 5% NaOCl + 18% etidronate (HEDP); and G6 - mixture 5% NaOCl + 10% tetrasodium EDTA (Na4EDTA). After irrigation, one root/group was split and images were obtained by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The other 20 roots/group were filled with only AH Plus sealer. Three slices/root were used for push-out assessment seven days and 20 months after obturation. One-way analysis of variance and Tukey (α<0.05) were used to compare the results among experimental groups, and unpaired t-test (α<0.05) was used to compare the results of the same group over time. Results The photomicrographs showed that, excepting G1, all groups completely removed the smear layer from the samples. In G2 and G4, the opening of the dentin tubules enlarged. In G3, erosion was observed in the peritubular and intertubular dentin. Values of the BS in the seven days were G2=G3=G4=G5>G6=G1 and in the 20 months were G3=G5>G6=G4>G1=G2. G3, G5, and G6 presented values of BS in 20 months similar to the values of seven days (P>0.05). Conclusions The final irrigation protocols tested produced dentin surfaces with different characteristics. Only G3 and G5 presented high BS values that were stable over time.

Influence of temperature on the torsional properties of two thermally treated NiTi rotary instruments

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the influence of temperature on torsional strength and angular deflection of two experimental NiTi rotary instruments manufactured from Blue and Gold thermal treatments and with identical cross-sections. A total of 40 experimental NiTi instruments 25.06 and with a triangular cross-section and manufactured from Blue and Gold thermal treatments were used (n=20). The torsional test was performed in the 3 mm from the tip of the instrument according to ISO 3630-1. The torsional test evaluated the torsional strength and angular deflection to failure at room temperature (21°C ± 1° C) and body temperature (36°C ±1°C). The fractured surface of each fragment was observed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed using an unpaired t test for inter and intra-group comparison and the level of significance was set at 5%. The results showed that the body temperature did not affect the torsional strength and angular deflection of the instruments when compared with room temperature (P>0.05). However, at body temperature, the Blue NiTi instruments presented significantly lower angular deflection in comparison with Gold NiTi instruments (P<0.05). There was no significant difference regarding the torsional strength of the instruments at body temperature (P>0.05). The temperature did not affect the torsional strength of the instruments manufactured from Blue and Gold technology. However, the Blue NiTi instruments presented significantly lower angular deflection than Gold instruments at 36°C temperature.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência da temperatura nas propriedades de torção (resistência à torção e deflexão angular) de dois instrumentos rotatórios experimentais de NiTi fabricados com secção triangu.ar e tratamentos térmicos Blue e Gold. Quarenta instrumentos experimentais de NiTi 25.06 com tratamento térmico Blue e Gold foram usados (n= 20). Foi avaliada a resistência torcional e a deflexão angular até a fratura na temperatura ambiente (21°C ± 1°C) e corporal (36°C ± 1°C). O teste torcional foi realizado nos 3 mm da ponta dos instrumentos de acordo com a ISO 3630-1. A superfície fraturada de cada instrumento foi observada pelo microscópio eletrônico de varredura (MEV). Os dados foram analisados por meio do teste t não pareado para a comparação inter e intragrupos e o nível de significância à 5%. Os resultados demonstraram que a temperatura corporal não afetou a resistência a torção e deflexão angular quando comparada com a temperatura ambiente (P>0.05). No entanto, na temperatura de 36°C o instrumento com tratamento térmico Blue apresentou menor deflexão angular quando comparado com o Gold (P<0.05). Não houve diferença significante entre os dois instrumentos em relação a resistência à torção. A temperatura corporal não modificou a resistência torcional dos instrumentos fabricados com tecnologia Blue e Gold. No entanto, os instrumentos com NiTi Blue apresentaram menor deflexão angular do que o Gold a 36°C.

An unusual repair of perforating internal inflammatory root resorption; a case report of endodontic treatment

Internal inflammatory root resorption (IIRR) can occur as a serious complication of dental trauma which leads to progressive loss of the root structure. An early diagnosis could influence the therapeutic approach, but endodontic treatment becomes a challenge with a doubtful prognosis. The present report described an unusual clinical presentation of an IIRR with perforation resulting from a trauma four years previous. A 15-year-old female patient was presented to our service with pain in the maxillary incisor region. Intraoral radiography revealed a large radioloucent area compatible with IIRR, communicating with the periodontium in the middle third on the distal root face of the right central incisor. The root canal of the right central incisor was chemo-mechanically prepared. The calcium hydroxide (CH) intracanal medication was used and renewed periodically four times. The root canal was filled only in the cervical region to the level of resorption by the inverted gutta-percha cone technique. Clinically and radiographically, all follow-up examinations revealed an asymptomatic tooth, evidencing periapical tissue repair and new bone formation. The tooth remained asymptomatic 3 years afterwards. The present case report supports the idea of executing satisfactory intracanal decontamination by chemo-mechanical preparation, thus creating a favourable environment for tissue repair.

Effect of nickel-titanium alloys on root canal preparation and on mechanical properties of rotary instruments

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of curved root canal preparation, torsional fatigue, and cyclic fatigue of rotary systems manufactured with different NiTi alloys. Ninety single-rooted canals with curvatures of 15° to 30o were scanned and divided into three groups according to the rotary system used: BT-Race (BTR) - 10.06, 35.00, 35.04; SequenceRotaryFile (SRF) - 15.04, 25.06, 35.04; and ProDesignLogic (PDL) - 25.01, 25.06, 35.05. Each system was used on three specimens. The teeth were prepared, scanned, and analyzed to assess increase in volume, transportation, and centering ability of the root canal. Torsional fatigue of glide path instruments (BTR 10.06, SRF 15.04 and PDL 25.01) and cyclic fatigue of the finishing instrument (BTR 35.04, SRF 35.04 and PDL 35.05) were obtained by analyzing completely new instruments (n = 10) and instruments after they had been used three times (n = 10). After the torsional and cyclic fatigue tests, the fractured surface of the new and used instruments were examined by scanning electron microscopy. Increase in volume, canal transportation, and centering ability showed no significant differences among the groups (p > 0.05). The torsional test showed that SRF 15.04 produced the highest torque values for both new and used instruments, followed by PDL 25.01 and BTR 10.06 (p < 0.05). PDL 25.01, both new and used, exhibited higher values of angular deflection followed by SRF 15.04 and BTR 10.06 (p < 0.05). As regards cyclic fatigue, use of PDL 35.05, both new and used, required a longer time and larger number of cycles than did SRF 35.04 and BTR 35.04 (p < 0.05). Clinical use affected the torsional fatigue of BTR; however, cyclic fatigue was not significantly affected (p < 0.05). All rotary systems were able to prepare the curved canals satisfactorily and were used safely on the three specimens. Relative to torsional fatigue, SRF 15.04 exhibited a higher torque, and PDL 25.01, higher angular deflection. BTR 10.06 was the most affected by clinical use. PDL 35.05 showed greater resistance to cyclic fatigue.

Physicochemical properties of calcium silicate-based formulations MTA Repair HP and MTA Vitalcem

Abstract Objective This study aimed to analyze the following physicochemical properties: radiopacity, final setting time, calcium release, pH change, solubility, water sorption, porosity, surface morphology, and apatite-forming ability of two calcium silicate-based materials. Material and methods We tested MTA Repair HP and MTA Vitalcem in comparison with conventional MTA, analyzing radiopacity and final setting time. Water absorption, interconnected pores and apparent porosity were measured after 24-h immersion in deionized water at 37°C. Calcium and pH were tested up to 28 d in deionized water. We analyzed data using two-way ANOVA with Student-Newman-Keuls tests (p<0.05). We performed morphological and chemical analyses of the material surfaces using ESEM/EDX after 28 d in HBSS. Results MTA Repair HP showed similar radiopacity to that of conventional MTA. All materials showed a marked alkalinizing activity within 3 h, which continued for 28 d. MTA Repair HP showed the highest calcium release at 28 d (p<0.05). MTA Vitalcem showed statistically higher water sorption and solubility values (p<0.05). All materials showed the ability to nucleate calcium phosphate on their surface after 28 d in HBSS. Conclusions MTA Repair HP and MTA Vitalcem had extended alkalinizing activity and calcium release that favored calcium phosphate nucleation. The presence of the plasticizer in MTA HP might increase its solubility and porosity. The radiopacifier calcium tungstate can be used to replace bismuth oxide.

Intradentinal antimicrobial action and filling quality promoted by ultrasonic agitation of epoxy resin-based sealer in endodontic obturation

Abstract The aim of this study was evaluate the influence of ultrasonic activation (UA) of AH Plus to improve canal and isthmus filing, and analyse the antimicrobial effect against Enterococcus faecalis within dentinal tubules. Material and Methods: Thirty mesial roots of mandibular first molars were selected and divided into 2 groups (n = 15): with and without UA of the sealer. Then the root canals were filled by using the single cone technique, and the specimens were sectioned at 2, 4 and 6 mm from the apex for stereomicroscope and confocal laser scanner microscopy (CLSM) analysis. In addition, 30 bovine incisors were contaminated with Enterococcus faecalis and divided into 3 groups (n = 10). The specimens were obturated by using the single cone technique with (G1) and without (G2) UA of the sealer and G3 as the control group. All were sectioned into 6 mm-long cylinders and stained with LIVE/DEAD to assess bacterial viability by CLSM. Results: The UA of the sealer significantly reduced the presence of unfilled areas in the canal and isthmus area in all sections (p<0.05), and there was a significant increase in sealer penetration in both canals and isthmuses (p<0.05). As regards gaps, a significant reduction was found at 2 and 6 mm in the isthmus area of the UA group (p<0.05). Moreover, UA of the sealer significantly reduced bacterial viability in the superficial dentine when compared with the other groups (p<0.05). Conclusion: Ultrasonic activation of the AH Plus sealer promoted a better quality of root canal filling and increased the intratubular penetration of sealer, especially in the isthmus area. Additionally, ultrasonic activation of the sealer increased the intradentinal antimicrobial action against Enterococcus faecalis, mainly in the superficial dentine of the root canal.

Uso do endoactivator no tratamento endodôntico / Use of the endoactivator in endodontic treatment

Introdução: a irrigação é uma das etapas essenciais no preparo biomecânico e, buscando aumentar a eficiência desta, novos métodos vem sendo empregados no intuito de melhorar a ação e o alcance das soluções irrigadoras. Objetivo: analisar a eficácia do sistema EndoActivator em várias etapas do tratamento endodôntico. Resultados e discussão: apesar de diferenças de metodologias na literatura, o EndoActivator apresentou bons resultados em comparação com a irrigação convencional quando empregado em diferentes fases do tratamento endodôntico. Conclusão: o sistema EndoActivator é seguro e eficaz durante o preparo biomecânico, porém, assim como outros dispositivos de agitação mecânica da solução irrigante, não é capaz de promover completa limpeza dos canais radiculares.

Introduction: the irrigation is an essential part of biomechanical preparation and seeking increase the efficiency of this, new methods have been used in order to expand the effect of irrigating solutions, and promote the reach for areas with difficult access. Objective: the objective of this literature review was to analyze the effectiveness of the EndoActivator system in several stages of endodontic treatment. Results and Discussion: despite differences in methodologies in the literature, the EndoActivator presented good results in comparison to conventional irrigation when used in different phases of endodontic treatment. Conclusion: the EndoActivator system is safe and effective during biomechanical preparation, but, like other mechanical agitation devices of the irrigating solution, it is not able to promote complete cleaning to root canals.

Evaluation of Different Passive Ultrasonic Irrigation Protocols on the Removal of Dentinal Debris from Artificial Grooves

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different passive ultrasonic irrigation protocols on the removal of debris in artificially created grooves in the cervical, middle and apical root thirds. Forty extracted bovine incisor roots were instrumented to 1 mm of the root apex with a R50 Reciproc instrument and irrigated with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite. The roots were then inserted in a muffle and cleaved into two hemisections. Grooves (3-mm long) were done at 2, 7 and 12 mm from the root apex in one hemisection and filled with dentinal debris. The hemisections were regrouped into the muffle and divided into 4 groups (n=10) according to the final irrigation protocol: Control group: 3x20 s using a #30 gauge needle without agitation of the irrigating solution; Group PUI-s (static passive ultrasonic irrigation): 3x20 s of passive ultrasonic irrigation with the tip of the insert maintained static on the apical third; Group PUI-t (passive ultrasonic irrigation per third): 20 s of PUI in each third; Group PUI-d (passive dynamic ultrasonic irrigation): 3x20 s of PUI dynamically moving the insert in the whole extent of the root canal. In all groups, was used a total of 6 mL of 2.5% sodium hypochlorite as irrigant. After these procedures, the grooves were analyzed with a stereomicroscope and assigned scores as regards removal of the debris. The data were analyzed statistically (a=0.05). The results showed a better cleaning in all the groups where the irrigating solution was agitated with ultrasonic device than in the control group (p<0.05). In the apical third, the PUI-d and PUI-s showed similar performance (p>0.05) and a better cleanness than PUI-t (p<0.05). The dynamic and static methods of agitation of the irrigating solution provided more effective cleaning. PUI-d provided the most completely clean grooves suggesting that its use is the most adequate in cases of teeth with complex canal anatomy.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a influência de diferentes protocolos de irrigação ultrassônica passiva na remoção de detritos em sulcos artificialmente criados nos terços radiculares cervical, médio e apical. Quarenta raízes de incisivos bovinos extraídos foram instrumentadas a 1 mm do ápice radicular com um instrumento R50 Reciproc e irrigadas com hipoclorito de sódio a 2,5%. As raízes foram então inseridas numa mufla e clivadas em duas hemisecções. Sulcos (3 mm de comprimento) foram feitos a 2, 7 e 12 mm do ápice radicular em uma hemisecção e preenchidos com detritos dentinários. As hemisecções foram reagrupadas na mufla e divididas em 4 grupos (n = 10) de acordo com o protocolo de irrigação final: Grupo controle: 3x20 s usando agulha de calibre #30 sem agitação da solução irrigadora; Grupo PUI-s (static passive ultrasonic irrigation): 3x20 s de irrigação ultra-sônica passiva com a ponta do inserto mantida estática no terço apical; Grupo PUI-t (Irrigação ultrassônica passiva por terço): 20 s de PUI em cada terço; Grupo PUI-d (Irrigação ultrassônica dinâmica): 3x20 s de PUI movendo dinamicamente o inserto em toda extensão do canal radicular. Em todos os grupos, foi utilizado um total de 6 mL de hipoclorito de sódio a 2,5% como irrigante. Após estes procedimentos, os sulcos foram analisadas com um estereomicroscópio e pontuações foram atribuídas quanto à remoção dos detritos. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente (a=0.05). Os resultados mostraram uma melhor limpeza em todos os grupos onde a solução de irrigação foi agitada com dispositivo ultrassônico do que no grupo controle (p<0,05). No terço apical, o PUI-d e o PUI-s apresentaram performance semelhantes (p>0,05) e melhor limpeza do que o PUI-t (p<0,05). Os métodos dinâmico e estático de agitação da solução de irrigação proporcionaram uma limpeza mais eficaz. O PUID promoveu os sulcos mais completamente limpos sugerindo que seu uso é o mais adequado em casos de dentes com anatomia de canal complexa.

Sealing ability of MTA, CPM, and MBPc as root-end filling materials: a bacterial leakage study

ABSTRACT Objectives To evaluate the sealing ability of three root-end filling materials (white MTA, CPM, and MBPc) using an Enterococcus faecalis leakage model. Material and Methods Seventy single-root extracted human teeth were instrumented and root-ends were resected to prepare 3 mm depth cavities. Root-end preparations were filled with white MTA, CPM, and MBPc cements. Enterococcus faecalis was coronally introduced and the apical portion was immersed in BHI culture medium with phenol red indicator. The bacterial leakage was monitored every 24 h for 4 weeks. The statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon-Gehan test (p<0.05). Results All cements showed bacterial leakage after 24 hours, except for the negative control group. The MBPc showed significantly less bacterial leakage compared with the MTA group (p<0.05). No significant differences were found between the CPM and the other groups. Conclusions The epoxy resin-based cement MBPc had lower bacterial leakage compared with the calcium silicate-based cements MTA and CPM.

Low-concentrated nonvital bleaching effect on bond strength of composite resin restorations / Efeito de clareadores não-vitais pouco concentrados sobre a força de cisalhamento de restaurações de resina composta

Objective: To investigate if short-term dentin bleaching with low-concentrated substances affects the bond strength of immediate resin composite restorations. Material and Methods: The buccal surfaces of fifty molar crowns were ground for dentin exposure and randomly assigned into 5 groups (n=10), according to the following treatments: sodium perborate + water; sodium perborate + 6% hydrogen peroxide; 6% hydrogen peroxide; 35% hydrogen peroxide (positive control), or no bleaching agent (negative control). The specimens were immediately restored with resin composite. Seven days after treatments, the shear bond test was performed in a universal test machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test (α = 0.05). Results: The shear bond strength mean values for the negative control group were higher than all experimental and positive control groups (p < 0.000), whose differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Short-term dentin bleaching with sodium perborate+water, 6% hydrogen peroxide, or sodium perborate mixed with 6% hydrogen peroxide reduced the shear bond strength of immediate resin composite restorations.

Objetivo: Investigar se o clareamento rápido da dentina com substâncias de baixa concentração afeta a resistência de união ao cisalhamento de restaurações imediatas de resina composta. Material e Métodos: As superfícies vestibulares de cinquenta molares foram desgastadas para exposição da dentina e então aleatoriamente alocadas em 5 grupos (n = 10), de acordo com as substâncias clareadoras: perborato de sódio + água; perborato de sódio + peróxido de hidrogênio a 6%; peróxido de hidrogênio a 6%; peróxido de hidrogênio a 35% (controle positivo); ou nenhum agente clareador (controle negativo). Os espécimes foram imediatamente restaurados com resina composta. Sete dias após os tratamentos, testes de resistência ao cisalhamento foram realizados em uma máquina de ensaios universal a uma velocidade de cruzeta de 0,5 mm/min. Os dados foram analisados com os testes ANOVA e Tukey HSD (α = 0,05). Resultados: Os valores de resistência ao cisalhamento do grupo controle negativo foram maiores do que os dos grupos experimentais e controle positivo (p < 0,001), cujas diferenças não foram estatisticamente significativa (p > 0,05). Conclusão: Clareamentos dentinários rápidos com perborato de sódio, peróxido de hidrogênio 6% ou perborato de sódio misturado com peróxido de hidrogênio 6% reduziram a força de resistência ao cisalhamento de restaurações imediatas de resina composta.

Tissue dissolution and modifications in dentin composition by different sodium hypochlorite concentrations

ABSTRACT Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) remains the most used irrigation solution during root canal preparation because of characteristics such as wide-spectrum antimicrobial activity and organic tissue dissolution capacity. However, these solutions can alter dentin composition and there is no consensus on the optimal concentration of NaOCl to be used. Objectives To determine the organic matter dissolution and changes in dentin chemical composition promoted by different concentrations of NaOCl over time. Material and Methods: Fragments of bovine muscle tissue were weighed before and after 5, 10, and 15 min of immersion in the groups (n=10): G1- 0.9% saline solution; G2- 1% NaOCl; G3- 2.5% NaOCl; and G4- 5% NaOCl. Bovine dentin fragments were subjected to the same irrigants and absorption spectra were collected by Attenuated Total Reflectance of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) before and after 0,5, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and 10 min of immersion in the solutions. The ratios of the amide III/phosphate and carbonate/phosphate absorption bands were determined. The tissue dissolution and carbonate/phosphate ratios were submitted to the two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Tukey’s multiple-comparison test (α<0.05) and to the one-way analysis of variance with Tukey’s (α<0.05). The amide III/phosphate ratio was analyzed by Friedman test (α<0.05) and the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn’s post-hoc (α<0.05). Results The increase in NaOCl concentration and contact time intensified the dissolution of organic matter and dentin collagen with reduction in the amide III/phosphate ratio. Significant differences between all groups (p<0.05) were observed in the dissolution of organic matter at 10 min and in the amide III/phosphate ratio between the saline solution and 5% NaOCl at 5 min. The carbonate/phosphate ratio decreased significantly in G2, G3, and G4 after 0,5 min of immersion (p<0.05), but more alterations did not occur in the subsequent periods (p>0.05). Intergroup differences were not observed in this ratio (p>0.05). Conclusions The increase in the exposure time and in the concentration of NaOCl solution lead to an increase in the tissue dissolution and dentin collagen deproteination. Furthermore, some carbonate ions are removed from the dentin inorganic phase by the NaOCl.

Procedimentos regenerativos endodônticos com clorexidina a 2% e hidróxido de cálcio: relato de caso / Endodontic regenerative procedures with 2% chlorhexidine and calcium hydroxide: case report

Introdução: Muitas substâncias têm sido utilizadas como irrigantes e curativos intracanal nos tratamentos de dentes com rizogênese incompleta, visando obter a regeneração pulpar. A clorexidina a 2% em associação com hidróxido de cálcio P.A. pode ser uma alternativa. Métodos: No presente caso clínico, o dente #45 com periodontite apical, em um paciente com 13 anos de idade, foi tratado com solução de clorexidina a 2% como irrigante. A clorexidina na forma de gel a 2% foi utilizada como auxiliar da instrumentação e, em associação com o hidróxido de cálcio, foi utilizada como curativo durante 14 dias. Após esse período, o canal foi irrigado com solução fisiológica e, sob anestesia alveolar mandibular, uma lima K #70 foi utilizada ultrapassando levemente o ápice, para causar sangramento. Após observar que o sangue dentro dos canais alcançou a porção cervical, o cimento biocerâmico MTA Branco foi colocado na porção cervical do canal. Resultados: A apicificação e o desenvolvimento da raiz em comprimento e largura puderam ser observados já no controle de três meses, e continuaram até a última revisão, no controle de um ano. Alterações de cor não foram observadas nese período de acompanhamento. Conclusões: A clorexidina associada ao hidróxido de cálcio pode ser uma alternativa aos procedimentos de regeneração pulpar (AU).

Introduction: Many substances have been used as irrigating solutions to promote pulp regeneration and root development in teeth with incomplete rhizogenesis. The use of 2% chlorhexidine as an irrigating solution in association with Calcium Hydroxide could be an alternative. Methods: In the case of the patient, a 13-year-old boy, here presented, tooth 45 with apical periodontitis was treated with 2% Chlorhexidine solution as irrigant adjuvant to instrumentation, in association with Calcium Hydroxide used as a dressing for 14 days. After this period, the canal was cleaned with a physiological solution and under mandibular alveolar anesthesia, a # 70 K file was used slightly over the apex to cause bleeding. After observing that blood inside the canals had reached the cervical portion. White MTA was placed in the cervical portion of the canal. Results: Induced apexification and development of increasing root length and width could already be observed in the three-month control exam, and this continued until the last review in the one-year control exam. No color changes were observed in this follow-up period. Conclusions: Chlorhexidine and calcium hydroxide could be used as an alternative to pulp regeneration procedures (AU).

Influence of the instrument used for cervical preflaring on the precision of 2 Eletronic Apex Locators / Influência do instrumento utilizado no preparo cervical na precisão de 2 localizadores apicais eletrônicos

ABSTRACT Objective: This study was aimed at evaluating the influence of cervical preflaring using LA-Axxes No. 1 bur (SybronEndo, Glendora, USA) or S1 and SX ProTaper files (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) on the accuracy of the Electronic Apex Locators (EALs): Root ZX mini (J. Morita Corporation, Tokyo, Japan), and Joypex 5 (Denjoy, Changsha, China). Methods: Thirty mandibular incisors were accessed, and the root canal length (RCL) was determined with a K-file #15, with the aid of a stereo microscope. Afterwards, the specimens were divided into 2 groups (n = 15) referring to the cervical preflaring with LA-Axxess or ProTaper files. The teeth were embedded in alginate and the RCL was determined by the EALs before and after preflaring. Data were classified into: accurate, if the difference in RCL measurement were ≤0.05 mm; and inaccurate, if the difference were >0.5 mm or beyond the RCL. Results: McNemar's test (α<0.05) was used to detect differences in the accuracy of the EALs before and after each preflaring with different instruments, and to detect difference in accuracy among devices. No differences were found concerning the accuracy of the EALs (P > 0.05) after the cervical preflaring, regardless of the used instrument. Conclusion: The preflaring procedure increased the number of accurate measurements for both EALs, with statistical difference for Joypex 5 when the preflaring was performed with LA-Axxess. However, after the cervical preflaring, the EALs showed similar accuracy, regardless of the used instrument.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar a influência do preparo cervical utilizando a broca LA-Axxess nº 1 (SybronEndo, Glendora, EUA) ou os instrumentos ProTaper S1 e SX (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Suíça) na precisão dos Localizadores Apicais Eletrônicos (LAEs): Root ZX mini (J. Morita Corporation, Tóquio, Japão) e Joypex 5 (Denjoy, Changsha, China). Métodos: Trinta incisivos inferiores foram acessados e o comprimento do canal radicular (CCR) determinado com uma lima K #15 com o auxílio de um estereomicroscópio. Em seguida, os dentes foram distribuídos em dois grupos (n=15) referentes ao preparo cervical com LA-Axxess ou instrumentos ProTaper. Os dentes foram incluídos em alginato e o CCR determinado pelos LAEs antes e após o preparo cervical. Os dados foram classificados em: precisos, se a diferença na medida do CCR era ≤ 0,05 mm; e imprecisos, se a diferença era >0,5 mm ou estava além do CCR. Resultados: O teste de McNemar (α<0.05) foi utilizado para detectar diferenças na precisão dos LAEs antes e após o preparo com os diversos instrumentos, e para detectar diferenças na precisão entre os aparelhos. Não foram identificadas diferenças na precisão entre os dois LAEs (P>0,05) após o preparo cervical, indiferente do instrumento utilizado. Conclusão: O preparo cervical aumentou o número de medições precisas dos LAEs, com diferença estatística para Joypex 5 após o uso da LA-Axxess, contudo os aparelhos apresentaram precisão similar após o preparo cervical, indiferente do instrumento utilizado.

Prevalence and morphometric analysis of three-rooted mandibular first molars in a Brazilian subpopulation

ABSTRACT The knowledge of the internal anatomy of three-rooted mandibular molars may help clinicians to diagnose and plan the root canal treatment in order to provide adequate therapy when this variation is present. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of three-rooted mandibular molars in a Brazilian population using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to analyze the anatomy of mandibular first molars with three roots through micro-CT. Material and Methods: CBCT images of 116 patients were reviewed to determine the prevalence of three-rooted first mandibular molars in a Brazilian subpopulation. Furthermore, with the use of micro-CT, 55 extracted three-rooted mandibular first molars were scanned and reconstructed to assess root length, distance between canal orifices, apical diameter, Vertucci's classification, presence of apical delta, number of foramina and furcations, lateral and accessory canals. The distance between the orifice on the pulp chamber floor and the beginning of the curvature and the angle of canal curvature were analyzed in the distolingual root. Data were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test (α=0.05). Results: The prevalence of three-rooted mandibular first molars was of 2.58%. Mesial roots showed complex distribution of the root canal system in comparison to the distal roots. The median of major diameters of mesiobuccal, mesiolingual and single mesial canals were: 0.34, 0.41 and 0.60 mm, respectively. The higher values of major diameters were found in the distobuccal canals (0.56 mm) and the lower diameters in the distolingual canals (0.29 mm). The lowest orifice distance was found between the mesial canals (MB-ML) and the highest distance between the distal root canals (DB-DL). Almost all distal roots had one root canal and one apical foramen with few accessory canals. Conclusions: Distolingual root generally has short length, severe curvature and a single root canal with low apical diameter.

Smear layer na endodontia, preservar ou remover? / Smear layer in endodontics, preserve or remove?

Introdução: todo canal radicular instrumentado, seja por métodos manuais ou rotatórios, apresentará a formação de uma lama de detritos sobre a parede dentinária, sendo esta composta tanto por matéria orgânica quanto inorgânica, denominada de smear layer. Em relação a sua remoção ou manutenção das paredes do canal, diversos autores apresentaram opiniões e resultados divergentes, gerando dúvidas aos clínicos em relação à conduta mais adequada a ser empregada no tratamento endodôntico. Objetivo: este trabalho, por meio de uma revisão de literatura, visa fornecer uma resposta clara, capaz de melhorar o prognóstico do tratamento. Metodologia: para isso, foram utilizados 25 trabalhos desde o ano de 1975 a 2014, coletados por meio das bases de dados PubMed e Web of Science, com as palavras chaves: "smear layer", "smear layer removal", "smear layer permeability", "smear layer bacteria" e "smear layer sealing". Conclusão: baseado na metodologia proposta pode-se concluir que a remoção da smear layer é a melhor conduta a ser tomada durante o tratamento endodôntico, pois proporciona uma ação antimicrobiana mais eficiente das substâncias irrigadoras e medicações intracanais, além de permitir um melhor selamento entre dentina e material obturador, reduzindo as chances de uma infiltração.

Introduction: the root canal instrumentation, either by manual or mechanicals methods, will result in a formation of debris layer on dentin surface composted by organic and inorganic tissues, denominated smear layer. Due to the several divergent opinion about its removal or maintenance into the root canal, the clinicians may have a doubt for the most appropriate conduct to be performed in endodontics treatments. Objective: this article aimed collect the mains results obtained by different authors to provide a clear answer capable of improving the treatment prognosis. Methods: for this, were used 25 articles since 1975 to 2014 collected by date base PubMed and Web of Science with the keywords "smear layer", "smear layer removal", "smear layer permeability", "smear layer bacteria" and "smear layer sealing". Conclusion: based in the informations obtained in this review, its was concluded that the smear layer removal can, not only, improve the antimicrobial action of the irrigants agents and intracanal medicaments, but also provide a most efficient sealing of the fillingmaterial to dentine wall, reducing the chances to occur a leak in its interface.

Comparação de diferentes métodos de inserção da pasta de hidróxido de cálcio para preenchimento de canais laterais simulados: estudo in vitro / Comparison of different methods for insertion of calcium hydroxide paste in the filling of simulated lateral canals: in vitro evaluation

Avaliar, em micro-CT, diferentes métodos de inserção da pasta de hidróxido de cálcio para preenchimento de canais laterais simulados em blocos de acrílico. Métodos: Foram utilizados 72 blocos de acrílico com canais laterais simuladas nas porções cervical, média e apical, os quais foram preenchidos com a pasta de hidróxido de cálcio de acordo com os seguintes métodos (n=12): Grupo 1 - lima tipo K #30; Grupo 2 - espiral de Lentulo; Grupo 3 - agitação ultrassônica; Grupo 4 - agitação sônica com EndoActivator; Grupo 5 - seringa + Capillari TIPS; e Grupo 6 - agitação com EasyClean em baixa rotação. Para os grupos que receberam agitação, o canal principal foi preenchido com a pasta utilizando seringa e Capillari Tips. Antes e após o preenchimento, os dentes foram escaneados em micro-CT (SkyScan 1174) e as imagens obtidas foram comparadas utilizando-se o software CTan. O volume de medicação intracanal no interior dos canais simulados foi mensurado e, em seguida, obtida a porcentagem de penetração. Os dados foram submetidos à comparação estatística (p<0,05). Resultados: Os grupos EndoActivator e ultrassom apresentaram resultados significativamente melhores do que a lima #30 nos três níveis analisados, assim como o EasyClean nos terços cervical e médio, e a Lentulo no terço apical, em relação ao Grupo 1 (p <0,05). Nas demais comparações e na análise intragrupos, não houve diferenças significativas (p>0,05). Conclusão: Os métodos de agitação da medicação intracanal, especialmente o ultrassom, proporcionaram uma maior porcentagem de penetração dela em canais laterais simulados (AU).

Objective: The objective of this study was to analyze, in micro-CT, the capacity of different methods for insertion of calcium hydroxide paste in the filling of lateral canals simulated in blocks of acrylic. Methods: A total of 72 acrylic blocks with lateral canals simulated in the coronal, middle and apical portions, were used and filled with calcium hydroxide paste, according to the following methods (n = 12): Group 1 - #30 K-file; Group 2 - Lentulo spiral; Group 3 - Ultrasonic agitation; Group 4 - Sonic agitation with EndoActivator; Group 5 - Syringe + Capillary Tips; Group 6 - Agitation with Easy Clean at low speed. For the groups that received agitation, the blocks were filled with the aid of a syringe and Capillary Tips. Each sample was scanned with SkyScan 1174, before and after the filling procedures, and the volume of calcium hydroxide was measured using CTAN software. The percentage of penetration of intracanal medication inside the simulated canals was calculated. Data were statistically compared (p < 0.05). Results: The agitation with EndoActivator and ultrasonic insert promoted a greater penetration of paste with significant statistical differences in relation to the #30 K-file group in the 3 levels analyzed (p < 0.05). Other statistical differences occurred in the comparison between the Easy Clean group and #30 K-file group in the coronal and middle thirds and in the comparison between Lentulo spiral group and #30 K-file group in the apical (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Methods which use agitation devices , such as ultrasonic insert, promoted higher filling of calcium hydroxide in simulated lateral canals (AU).

Rat subcutaneous tissue response to calcium silicate containing different arsenic concentrations

Objective: To evaluate the response of rat subcutaneous tissue in implanted polyethylene tubes that were filled with GMTA Angelus and Portland cements containing different arsenic concentrations. Material and Methods: Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was utilized to obtain the values of the arsenic concentration in the materials. Thirty-six rats were divided into 3 groups of 12 animals for each experimental period. Each animal received two implants of polyethylene tubes filled with different test cements and the lateral of the tubes was used as a control group. After 15, 30 and 60 days of implantation, the animals were killed and the specimens were prepared for descriptive and morphometric analysis considering: inflammatory cells, collagen fibers, fibroblasts, blood vessels and other components. The results were analyzed utilizing the Kuskal-Wallis test and the Dunn's Multiple test for comparison (p<0.05). Results: The materials showed, according to atomic absorption spectrophotometry, the following doses of arsenic: GMTA Angelus: 5.01 mg/kg, WPC Irajazinho: 0.69 mg/kg, GPC Minetti: 18.46 mg/kg and GPC Votoran: 10.76 mg/kg. In a 60-day periods, all specimens displayed a neoformation of connective tissue with a structure of fibrocellular aspect (capsule). Control groups and MTA Angelus produced the lower amount of inflammatory reaction and GPC Minetti, the highest reaction. Conclusions: There was no direct relationship between the concentration of arsenic present in the composition of the materials and the intensity of the inflammatory reactions. Higher values, as 18.46 mg/kg of arsenic in the cement, produce characteristics of severe inflammation reaction at the 60-day period. The best results were found in MTA angelus. .

Endodontic surgery with simultaneous root canal filling: case report

Introduction: Endodontic surgery is an excellent alternative for solving problems unsolved by conventional treatments and/or root canal retreatment. Objective: This study aims to report a clinical case of an endodontic surgery with simultaneous root canal filling. Case report: The left mandibular lateral incisor (#32) showed constant exudation even after root canal instrumentation and many changes of calcium hydroxide paste as intracanal medication. So, the treatment´s option was the endodontic surgery with simultaneous root canal filling for removing the periapical lesion. After the root canal filling, the curettage and apical plasty were made and the bone cavity was filled with calcium sulfate. Histopathological examination pointed out a periapical cyst. Conclusion: Endodontic surgery with simultaneous root canal filling of the tooth #32 was successful, once the patient did not exhibited any clinical symptoms, the exudate disappeared, and radiographically, it can be observed the formation of bone repair. The time of follow-up was of four months.

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

Objective: To evaluate the shaping ability of Reciproc and Twisted-File Adaptive systems in rapid prototyping replicas. Material and Methods: Two mandibular molars showing S-shaped and 62-degree curvatures in the mesial root were scanned by using a microcomputed tomography (μCT) system. The data were exported in the stereolitograhic format and 20 samples of each molar were printed at 16 µm resolution. The mesial canals of 10 replicas of each specimen were prepared with each system. Transportation was measured by overlapping radiographs taken before and after preparation and resin thickness after instrumentation was measured by μCT. Results: Both systems maintained the original shape of the apical third in both anatomies (P>0.05). Overall, considering the resin thickness in the 62-degree replicas, no statistical difference was found between the systems (P>0.05). In the S-shaped curvature replica, Reciproc significantly decreased the thickness of the resin walls in comparison with TF Adaptive. Conclusions: The evaluated systems were able to maintain the original shape at the apical third of severely curved mesial canals of molar replicas. .