Root canal preparation with Endo-Eze AET: changes in root canal shape assessed by micro-computed tomography

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Endodontic treatment aims to clean and shape root canals.
• Innovations in endodontic instruments seek to improve shaping efficiency and preserve root canal anatomy.
• Maxillary molars present complex root canal anatomy, posing challenges for instrumentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of Endo-Eze Anatomic Endodontic Technology (AET) stainless steel instruments.
• To assess the shaping capabilities of AET instruments in maxillary molar root canals in vitro.
• To quantify canal transportation and preparation errors associated with AET instrumentation.

Main Methods:

• Extracted human maxillary molars were analyzed using micro-computed tomography (muCT) before and after shaping.
• Three-dimensional root canal models were reconstructed to evaluate volume, surface area, diameter, and canal transportation.
• Preparation errors, including apical zips and perforations, were visually assessed.

Main Results:

• AET instruments significantly increased root canal volume and surface area in all canals.
• Substantial canal transportation was observed, particularly in mesiobuccal canals.
• Significant straightening of root canals occurred, with preparation errors noted in 17 instances.

Conclusions:

• Endo-Eze AET instruments led to considerable canal transportation and dentine removal, even at a size 30 apical preparation.
• The instruments resulted in significant straightening of curved root canals.
• Endo-Eze AET is not recommended for preparing curved root canals due to observed limitations.