Perspectives of Indian dental residents on novel online practical examination during COVID-19: A cross-sectional study.

PURPOSE: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the graduating dental residents' perspectives on the online clinical examination format. METHODS: The questionnaire used to assess the perspectives was developed via a focus group discussion and was validated for face and content validity, readability testing, and pilot testing for the online version. This self-administered, online questionnaire integrated 15 Likert-scale-based multiple choice questions and one open-ended question. It was distributed to the residents across 16 dental schools after the clinical examination was completed. The perspectives regarding examination preparation, the ability to transition to online mode, and the performance in the examination were assessed. Descriptive statistical analysis (counts and percentages) was performed. RESULTS: A total of 256 subjects participated in the study by returning the online survey. In the preparation phase, 70.7% (n = 181) residents reported anxiety and 56.1% (n = 144) reported stress. During the examinations, only 13.6% (n = 35) of the participants reported difficulty with internet speed. The majority, 64.6% (n = 165) of the participants reported that the absence of an external examiner face-to-face reduced anxiety. The compiled answers to the open-ended question revealed that residents expressed inconvenience in digitizing the academic logbooks and clinical work. The poor quality of sound and images affected the display of skills. CONCLUSIONS: The study revealed a moderate level of acceptance for the novel online practical examination method. The residents reported stress before and during the examination due to the sudden transition to an online examination. The online practical examination with modifications might be a viable alternative to the in-person clinical examination.

Real-time guided endodontics: A case report of maxillary central incisor with calcific metamorphosis.

Dental trauma results in various complications and poses an enigma to the practitioner. Calcific metamorphosis is one of the sequelae of trauma. A female patient of 35 years visited the specialty clinic of endodontics for the management of a discolored tooth. Clinically, discolored 21 was observed with no pain on palpation and percussion. The pulp sensibility test revealed a negative response. Radiographic examination revealed pulp canal obliteration with an apical radiolucency of Peri Apical Index (PAI 4). The tooth was diagnosed as necrotic pulp with asymptomatic apical periodontitis. Attempt to negotiate the canal under a Dental Operating Microscope (LABOMED, Los Angeles, CA, USA) and ultrasonics (Satelec, Acteon, France) was futile. Cone-beam computed tomography image revealed a patent canal in the apical third. Using real-time guided endodontics with a dynamic navigation system (Navident, ClaroNav, Toronto, ON, Canada), the protocol of plan, trace, and place was followed, and successful canal negotiation was achieved. After radiographic confirmation, root canal treatment was completed.

One-year clinical evaluation of bulk-fill composite resin restorations plasticized by preheating and ultrasonics: A randomized clinical trial.

Introduction: Bulk-fill composite restorations displayed substantial annual failure related to imperfect marginal adaptation. Although preheated composites improved, marginal adaptation demonstrated early loss of plasticity. A new technique of ultrasonics plasticization was used for fabricating restorations. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the clinical behavior of bulk-fill composite resin restorations plasticized by preheating and ultrasonics. Methodology: Randomized split-mouth double-blinded clinical trial was designed. Bulk-fill composite resin (Tetric N-Ceram Bulk Fill Ivoclar Vivadent products, Delhi) was used to fill 56 cavities. In 28 restorations, composite resin was plasticized by preheating in composite warmer (Delta Co., India) and remaining were plasticized with modified ultrasonic-retreatment tip-RT No 2 (Cricdental, India). Clinical follow-up assessments were done at 6 and 12 months using Ryge's criteria. Mann-Whitney U-test was used for statistical analysis with P < 0.05 and effect size of 0.61. Results: Hundred percent clinical success with ultrasonic plasticized group and 95.2% success with preheated composite resin group were observed without statistical significance. Conclusion: The ultrasonics plasticization of composite resin demonstrated comparable results with that of preheated composite resin after 6- and 12-month recall. Use of vibration energy utilizing the thixotropic effect might have resulted in better clinical performance.

Comparative evaluation of the effect of adhesive restorative composite resins on the reinforcement of peri-cervical dentin: An in vitro study.

Background: Peri-cervical dentin (PCD) and its reinforcement play a crucial role in the fracture resistance of root canal-treated teeth. Aims: The aim of this study was to compare the fracture resistance of dual-cure, nano-hybrid, and short-fiber reinforced composite resins restored PCD with conventional hybrid composite (CHC) resin restored endodontically treated mandibular premolars. Settings and Design: Academic, in vitro study. Materials and Methods: The prepared mandibular premolar samples were randomly divided into five groups of 10 each. In Group 1, teeth were left intact. The remaining 40 teeth were endodontically treated and obturated as follows: In Group 2, teeth were obturated with gutta-percha till cementoenamel junction and restored with CHC. Teeth in Groups 3, 4, and 5 were obturated to a depth of 5 mm from the cervical line and restored with dual-cure, nano-hybrid, and short-fiber reinforced composite resins, respectively. Fracture resistance was tested using a universal testing machine. Statistical Analysis Used: One-way analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey's test. Results: Short-fiber reinforced composite resin showed a significantly higher mean fracture resistance value compared with other experimental groups. The mean fracture resistance values were obtained as Group 1 > Group 5 > Group 4 > Group 3 > Group 2. Conclusions: Reinforcement with short-fiber reinforced composite showed significantly higher fracture resistance compared with nano-hybrid and dual-cure composite resins.

Evaluation of Bond Durability, Surface Morphology, and Remineralization at the Adhesive Interface with Dentin Bonding Agents Modified with Silica-doped Nanohydroxyapatite.

Objectives: To compare and evaluate the bond durability, surface morphology, and remineralization of the adhesive layer with newer adhesive systems modified with novel bioactive nanoparticles. Methodology: Bonding agents evaluated in this study include (a) Conventional dentin bonding agent (CN-DBA) (b) Nanohydroxyapatite (nanoHAP) incorporated dentin bonding agent (NH DBA); (c) Silica doped nanohydroxyapatite (Si nanoHAP) incorporated dentin bonding agent (Si NH DBA). A total of 104 human dentin discs (5 mm × 5 mm × 2 mm) were sectioned. Elemental analysis (Ca/P ratio) and surface morphology of the adhesive layer with different dentin adhesives were evaluated under scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis after speculated storage time of 1 day and 6 months. Microshear bond strength of adhesive restorations with different dentin adhesives was evaluated under universal testing machine and fractographic analysis under scanning electron microscope after speculated storage time of 1 day and 6 months. The results were analyzed using analysis of variance and post hoc analysis. Results: Si-NH-DBA showed highest mean microshear bond strength for both 1 day and 6 months, which was significantly higher compared to conventional nanofilled dentin bonding agent (CN-DBA) and NH-DBA. Si-NH-DBA group showed only 10% reduction in bond strength after 6 months, which was less compared to that of other groups. Similarly, Si-NH-DBA showed higher remineralization with stellate-shaped crystals at the adhesive layer after 6 months with hydrolytic resistant hybrid layer, compared to CN-DBA and NH-DBA. Conclusion: Silica-doped nanohydroxyapatite proved its efficiency on bond stability, remineralization, and hydrolytic resistance when incorporated into dentin bonding agents because of its bioactivity and carbonate-containing apatite-forming ability.

Comparative evaluation of efficacy of three single file retreatment systems for removal of gutta percha and assessment of root canal transportation - An In Vitro study.

Background: In comparison to multiple file systems, recent advancements in single file retreatment systems had reduced the working time and ease of operation for clinicians. Aim: To compare the efficacy of retreatment systems compared with hand instrumentation, by evaluating their removal efficacy, time required for retreatment and assessment of canal transportation. Methods and Material: Forty premolars were instrumented using ProTaper Gold gold files. Post instrumentation, scan was taken, obturated using warm vertical compaction technique, and stored in artificial saliva for three months and randomly divided into four groups for retreatment. Hand instrumentation (Hi), Neoniti (Nn), Mtwo R (Mt), WaveOne Gold (Wg). Post retreatment, scan was taken. Teeth were sectioned longitudinally and photographed under the stereomicroscope. Retreatment time was recorded, and canal transportation was calculated. Statistical Analysis: The results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey's post hoc test at 95% confidence level. Results: The retreatment time was significantly longer in the Hi group. Within the test groups, a significantly longer time has been taken by Wg (p < 0.05) compared to Mt and Nn. There was no difference in the canal transportation between the single file systems at 3 mm, 6 mm and 9 mm from the apex, there was statistically significant higher transportation for the Hi group at 9 mm from the apex (p < 0.05). Conclusions: All techniques were effective in removal of filling material with minimal canal transportation. Wg system was shown to increased time compared to Nn and Mt systems. Hi group was slowest with maximum canal transportation at 9 mm from the apex.

An In Vitro Evaluation of the Remineralizing Efficacy of Two concentrations of Silica Doped Nanohydroxyapatite on Bleached Enamel

@#Introduction: Vital bleaching of teeth is associated with mineral loss and surface roughness leading to hypersensitivity. Aesthetic restorations are recommended after one week. Search is on for a suitable remineralizing material, which helps in instant adhesive bonding. Hence objective of the study is to evaluate the remineralizing efficacy of two concentrations of Silica doped Nanohydroxyapatite on bleached enamel. Methods: Enamel surfaces of 30 extracted human central incisors were divided into Part A: Unbleached enamel, Part B: Bleached enamel, Part C: Remineralized enamel. The samples were randomly divided into, Group 1: MI Paste Plus (Recaldent, USA), Group 2 and 3 for application of Dentin bonding agents (Tetric- n-bond, Ivoclar, Vivadent) mixed 0.2% and 0.8% Silica doped Nanohydroxyapatite (Sigma Aldrich, Bangalore, India). Post bleaching remineralizing agents were applied on part C. Surface roughness was evaluated with contact stylus profilometer and mineral content was evaluated with Energy dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy for three parts. Data were analysed using ANOVA and Post Hoc Tukey test with p ≤ 0.05. Results: Surface roughness values (Ra) were increased, and mineral loss (Ca:P) was observed after bleaching. After application of remineralizing agents, surface roughness was decreased with no significant value (p > 0.05) and a significant increase in mineral content of all three groups with a p < 0.05 was observed. Conclusion: Application of dentin bonding agent mixed with Silica doped Nanohydroxyapatite decreased surface roughness and improved remineralization of bleached enamel.

Correlation between Dentofacial Esthetics and Mental Temperament: A Clinical Photographic Analysis Using Visagism.

BACKGROUND: "Visagism," a proposed novel concept, makes it possible for the patients to express the desirable emotions and personality traits, through their smile. According to this concept, clinicians can design a smile that blends with the patient's physical appearance, personality, and desires. AIM: To establish a relation, if any, between the smile pattern (dentofacial esthetics determined by three parameters, i.e., tooth form, long axes of maxillary anterior teeth, and connection line between embrasure) and the personality traits (four mental temperaments) through the concept of visagism. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: A total of 190 participants aged between 20 and 38 years from a dental college were selected for the study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The temperaments of the participants were identified using a self-reporting questionnaire. The photographs of frontal view of teeth in centric occlusion of the participants were captured, and their tooth forms, long axes, and embrasure lines were drawn using photograph editing software. The type of temperament obtained from the questionnaire for each participant was compared with that obtained from photographic evaluation. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED: The obtained data were statistically analyzed by applying Kappa statistics for kappa measure of agreement. RESULTS: There was no agreement between temperaments derived through questionnaire and those temperaments obtained from the photographic analysis. CONCLUSION: Although the concept of combining the principles of smile design and mental temperaments through visagism is an appreciable idea, it lacks a practical approach to create a personalized smile for each patient by including mental temperaments at present stage.

Comparison of Tentative Radiographic Working Length with and without grid Versus Electronic Apex Locator.

The apical termination of obturation is the most important factor influencing the success of root canal treatment (RCT). Working length (WL) is the key element in achieving this. AIM: The aim of this study is to compare and evaluate the preoperative estimated WL with conventional radiograph and with grid radiograph, with reference to electronic apex locator (EAL) in single-rooted teeth. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: Thirty permanent anterior teeth with complete root formation indicated for RCT were included in this study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Conventional radiograph (Group 1) and conventional radiograph with external grid (Group 2) were made before access opening. WL with EAL (Group 3) was determined after access opening. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) was used to compare the WLs of three groups, and the statistical significance was considered to be P ≤ 0.05. ANOVA, post hoc test were made to measure the intergroup comparison, and Pearson correlation values were obtained. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The results of the study showed a higher correlation between grid WL and apex locator WL than conventional WL and apex locator WL. Preoperative metrics with radiographic grid along with the apex locator is a better measuring tool compared to the conventional radiographic WL in a single-rooted tooth.

Comparative evaluation of chlorhexidine, grape seed extract, riboflavin/chitosan modification on microtensile bond strength of composite resin to dentin after polymerase chain reaction thermocycling: An in vitro study.

AIM: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of chlorhexidine (CHX), grape seed extract (GSE), riboflavin/chitosan modification on microtensile bond strength (µTBS) of composite resin to dentin after polymerase chain reaction (PCR) thermocycling. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty extracted human molars were used and a flat surface was then prepared by removing the occlusal one-third. The teeth were randomly assigned into four groups - Group I in which self-etch adhesive (Adper Easy One) was applied and Groups II, III, IV were pretreated with 2% CHX, 6.5% GSE, and 1% riboflavin/chitosan, respectively, before the application of self-etch adhesive. Composite build-ups were constructed, and PCR thermocycling (5000 cycles) was performed. The µTBS was evaluated using the universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test. RESULTS: The mean µTBS values for Group I (control), Group II (CHX), Group III (GSE), and Group IV (riboflavin/chitosan modification) were 30.81, 43.15, 38.79, and 35.07 MPa, respectively. CONCLUSION: Pretreatment with CHX and GSE leads to a significant increase in µTBS of composite resin to dentin.

Surgical management of lateral incisor with type II dens invaginatus and a periapical pathosis: A case report with 1-year follow-up.

Dens invaginatus is a relatively common dental malformation resulting from an infolding of enamel organ into the dental papilla varying in depth into the tooth tissues. Complex morphological anatomy associated with the pulpal pathology presents inaccessibility to completely remove the necrotic pulp tissues and hence poses challenges in rendering endodontic treatment. A combination of nonsurgical and surgical management in treating such cases is advisable depending on the presented variations. The present case reports the surgical endodontic treatment of an immature maxillary lateral incisor with type II dens invaginatus and periapical pathology.

Spectrophotometric Evaluation of Colour Stability of Nano Hybrid Composite Resin in Commonly Used Food Colourants in Asian Countries.

INTRODUCTION: There is growing interest in colour stability of aesthetic restorations. So far few studies have been reported. AIM: This study was designed to investigate the effects of different common food colourants i.e., Turmeric and Carmoisine (orange red dye) consumed by patients in Asian countries on a recent nano hybrid composite resin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of sixty disk shaped specimens measuring 10 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness were prepared. The samples were divided into two groups {Z 100 (Dental restorative composite) Filtek Z 250 XT (Nano hybrid universal restorative)}. Baseline colour measurement of all specimens were made using reflectance spectrophotometer with CIE L*a*b* system. Specimens were immersed in artificial saliva and different experimental solutions containing food colourants (carmoisine solution and turmeric solution) for three hours per day at 37°C. Colour measurements were made after 15 days. Colour difference (ΔE*) was calculated. Mean values were compared by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Multiple range test by Tukey Post-hoc test procedure was employed to identify the significant groups at 5% level. RESULTS: Z 100 showed minimum staining capacity when compared to Z 250 XT in both the colourant solutions. CONCLUSION: The nanohybrid composite resin containing TEGDMA showed significant colour change when compared to that of microhybrid composite resin as a result of staining in turmeric and carmoisine solution.

Shaping ability of reciprocating motion of WaveOne and HyFlex in moderate to severe curved canals: A comparative study with cone beam computed tomography.

INTRODUCTION: M-Wire and reciprocating motion of WaveOne and controlled memory (CM) wire) of HyFlex were the recent innovations using thermal treatment. Therefore, a study was planned to evaluate the shaping ability of reciprocating motion of WaveOne and HyFlex using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). METHODOLOGY: Forty-five freshly extracted mandibular teeth were selected and stored in saline until use. All teeth were scanned pre- and post-operatively using CBCT (Kodak 9000). All teeth were accessed and divided into three groups. (1) Group 1 (control n = 15): Instrumented with ProTaper. (2) Group 2 (n = 15): Instrumented with primary file (8%/25) WaveOne. (3) Group 3 (n = 15): Instrumented with (4%/25) HyFlex CM. Sections at 1, 3, and 5 mm were obtained from the pre- and post-operative scans. Measurement was done using CS3D software and Adobe Photoshop software. Apical transportation and degree of straightening were measured and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: HyFlex showed lesser apical transportation when compared to other groups at 1 and 3 mm. WaveOne showed lesser degree of straightening when compared to other groups. CONCLUSION: This present study concluded that all systems could be employed in routine endodontics whereas HyFlex and WaveOne could be employed in severely curved canals.

A comparative evaluation of the increase in root canal surface area and canal transportation in curved root canals by three rotary systems: A cone-beam computed tomographic study.

AIM: The aim of this study was to measure the increase in root canal surface area and canal transportation after biomechanical preparation at 1, 3, and 5 mm short of the apex with three different rotary systems in both continuous rotary and reciprocating rotary motions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty freshly extracted human mandibular molars with mesial root canal curvatures between 20° and 30° were included in the study. Teeth were randomly distributed into three groups (n = 20). Biomechanical preparations were done in all the mesial canals. In Group 1, instrumentation was done with ProTaper universal rotary files, Group 2, with K3XF rotary files, and Group 3, with LSX rotary files. Each group was further subdivided into subgroups A and B (n = 10) where instrumentation was done by continuous rotary and reciprocating rotary techniques, respectively. Increase in root canal surface area and canal transportation was measured using the preoperative and postoperative cone-beam computed tomography scans. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey pairwise multiple comparison tests. RESULTS: Increase in root canal surface area was significantly more (P < 0.05) in ProTaper and K3XF groups when compared to LSX group. Canal transportation was significantly more (P < 0.05) in ProTaper group when compared to K3XF and LSX groups. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in increase of root canal surface area and canal transportation between continuous rotary and reciprocating rotary techniques for ProTaper Universal, K3XF and LSX groups. CONCLUSION: LSX rotary system showed minimal increase of root canal surface area and minimal canal transportation when compared to ProTaper and K3XF rotary systems.

Evaluation of the Quality of Obturation with Obtura at Different Sizes of Apical Preparation Through Microleakage Testing.

INTRODUCTION: Obturation of the root canal system is required to prevent recontamination of the root canal after cleaning and shaping procedures and to seal the root canal completely, both the apical and coronal avenues of potential leakage and to maintain the disinfected status. AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the microleakage by dye leakage method at 1mm, 3mm and 5mm short of the apex with different sizes of apical preparation, obturated by Obtura. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty freshly extracted human single rooted teeth were randomly distributed into six equal groups. Group I (control group) was obturated by lateral compaction technique. Group II to VI were experimental groups (apical preparations done upto ISO sizes 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 respectively), obturated by Obtura technique. After storing the samples at 100% humidity for seven days and one day in 2% methylene blue, the roots of the teeth were sectioned at 3mm short of the apex. They were observed under stereomicroscope at 20X magnification and the images were analysed for microleakage using the scoring criteria. The data obtained were analysed by One-way ANOVA followed by Tukey pair-wise multiple comparison test and p ≤ 0.05 was considered as the level of significance. RESULTS: The lowest mean microleakage score was seen in Group VI (0) and the highest mean leakage score was seen in Group II (1.5). There was statistically significant difference between Group II and Group V (p = 0.044), Group II and Group VI (p = 0.013). There was no significant difference between all the other groups (p> 0.05). CONCLUSION: Comparison of microleakage between different groups from ISO sizes 20-60 recommends a minimum apical preparation of ISO size 30.

Comparative evaluation of microshear bond strength of the caries-affected dentinal surface treated with conventional method and chemomechanical method (papain).

BACKGROUND: There is a growing interest in chemomechanical excavation (papain) in permanent molar teeth. There are several studies dealing with primary molar teeth. AIM: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of conventional method and Carie-care (chemomechanical method) on the microshear bond strength (µSBS) and the type of failure of an adhesive system to caries-affected dentin of permanent molar teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty permanent molar teeth with carious lesions extending into the dentin were selected. Through the center of the carious lesion, teeth were sectioned mesiodistally and divided into two groups based on the method of caries excavation (conventional and chemomechanical method). The time required for the completion of excavation procedure was noted. Samples were again divided into two subgroups in each according to the method of restoration (Ketac N100 and Filtek Z350 composite). The bonded interface was subjected to µSBS testing in a universal testing machine. Fractured surfaces were examined under a stereomicroscope, and representative specimens were examined under scanning electron microscope for the type of failure. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: It was achieved with unpaired t-test and Kruskal-Wallis H-test at 5% level of significance. RESULTS: The µSBS values of Carie-care groups were similar to that of the conventional method. The µSBSs of resin composite were significantly (P < 0.001) more than that of resin glass ionomer bonded irrespective of the method of caries excavation. CONCLUSION: A papain-based chemomechanical agent can be used safely as a method for caries removal when employing conventional adhesive systems.

A novel approach for restoration of hemisectioned mandibular second molar with modified tunnel restoration: a case report.

Hemisection refers to sectioning of a mandibular molar into two halves followed by removal of the diseased root and its coronal portion. Hemisection of a mandibular molar may be a suitable treatment option when the decay is restricted to one root and the other root is healthy. The retained root is endodontically treated and the furcation area is made self-cleansable. Retained tooth structure is restored as premolar which helps to reduce the masticatory load. Hemisection of mandibular molar was often referred to as premolarization. Studies showed that the remaining coronal structure influenced the fracture resistance of endodontically treated maxillary first premolars. Clinical experience showed the viability of tunnel restoration as an alternative to class II conventional cavity preparation in initial proximal lesion. This article discusses a case that presents the novel technique involved in restoration of the remaining hemisected tooth using modified tunnel restoration.

Biological dentin post for intra radicular rehabilitation of a fractured anterior tooth.

Ideal coronal reconstruction of endodontically treated tooth is still a challenge for restorative dentistry. Despite having varied types of commercially available posts, none of them meet all the ideal biological and mechanical properties. In this context a "Biological Post" serves as a homologous recipe for intraradicular rehabilitation of a fractured endodontically treated tooth by virtue of its biomimetic property.This case report addresses the esthetic and functional restoration of a fractured, endodontically treated maxillary lateral incisor in a young patient, through the preparation and adhesive cementation of a "Biological Post" made from a freshly extracted, intact human canine. The use of biological post can be considered as a novel alternative technique for the rehabilitation of an extensively damaged tooth.

A Comparitive Evaluation of Sealing Ability, pH and Rheological Properties of Zinc Oxide Eugenol Sealer Combined with Different Antibiotics: An In Vitro Study.

AIM: The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the sealing ability, pH & viscosity of Zinc oxide eugenol sealer mixed with different antibiotics (Amoxicillin, Ciprofloxacin, Clindamycin and Doxycycline). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety single rooted anterior teeth were randomly divided into four experimental groups of 15 teeth each and 3 control groups of 10 each. Sealer-antibiotic combination was used as a sealer in experimental group. Teeth were sectioned longitudinally to assess linear dye penetration. pH and viscosity of the experimental groups were evaluated with Elico pH Meter and Brook Field Viscometer respectively. RESULTS: (Amoxicillin+ ZOE) Group II and (Clindamycin + ZOE) Group IV have shown minimum linear dye leakage of 1.07mm & 1.22 mm respectively & (Ciprofloxacin + ZOE) Group III and (Doxycycline + ZOE) Group V 2.69 mm & 2.59 mm respectively. There was decrease in the viscosity of the experimental group. pH was found to be 8.55 for Group II sealer which was greater than control group. CONCLUSION: Amoxicillin and sealer combination can improve the success rate of endodontic therapy by enhancing the antimicrobial activity, alkaline environment and reducing apical microleakage.

An in vitro stereomicroscopic comparative evaluation of a combination of apex locator and endodontic motor with an integrated endodontic motor.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of an integrated apex locator and an apex locator and endodontic motor assembly in maintaining the working length when operated under autoreverse mode. STUDY DESIGN: Thirty distobuccal roots of intact maxillary first molars were taken and access cavities were prepared. The teeth were divided into Group I: Prepared with TCM Endo V and Group II: Prepared with ProPex and NSK assembly. The instrumentation was ended in ProTaper F3 file, which was cemented in the canal. The roots were sectioned, observed under a stereomicroscope and the distance from instrument tip to the apical foramen was measured. RESULTS: Mean difference in the deviation of two groups was 0.075 mm, P = 0.34 (>0.05) which was statistically insignificant when assessed with unpaired t-test. CONCLUSION: The assembly of ProPex-NSK Endo-mate DT and the apex locating endomotor TCM Endo V Nouvag are clinically acceptable.