Nickel-titanium rotary instruments: current concepts for preparing the root canal system

The purpose of this paper is to provide useful information that will enable dentists to predictably shape root canals for three-dimensional obturation of the root canal system. The information is intended to help clinicians better understand when and how to safely use Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) rotary shaping instruments. This article is intended to enhance clinical performance for all dentists who perform root canal preparation procedures regardless of which instruments are chosen and the techniques employed during their utilisation. The guidelines for successful access and the concepts and strategies for canal preparation are discussed. Additionally, the advantages of negotiating and then pre-enlarging the coronal two-thirds of the canal before negotiating and finishing the apical one-third are emphasised. Although a set of endodontic instruments can shape a root canal, this article will also review the importance of irrigants and their role in cleaning the root canal system.