Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 19, 2026

05:30
Roughness Impact of Piezoelectric Dental Scaler on Two Distinct Flowable Composite Filling Materials
Published on: January 10, 2025
The effect of ultrasonic post instrumentation on root surface temperature
Andrew S Huttula1, Patricia A Tordik, Glen Imamura
1Naval Postgraduate Dental School, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Journal of Endodontics
|October 24, 2006
Summary
Ultrasonic vibration during endodontic post removal significantly increases root surface temperature, especially without irrigation. Using water coolant during ultrasonic post removal is crucial for managing heat and protecting root structures.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Cemented endodontic posts are common in restorative dentistry.
- Ultrasonic vibration is used for post removal, but its effect on root temperature is critical.
- Elevated root surface temperatures can potentially harm periodontal tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure root surface temperature changes during ultrasonic post removal.
- To evaluate the impact of irrigation (water coolant) on temperature changes.
- To compare temperature variations at different root locations.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-six extracted premolars were prepared, obturated, and had posts cemented.
- Thermocouples measured root surface temperature during 4-minute ultrasonic vibration.
- Teeth were tested with and without water irrigation.
- Two-way ANOVA analyzed the effects of irrigation and thermocouple location.
Main Results:
- Root surface temperatures were significantly higher (p < 0.001) when posts were removed dry.
- A trend showed higher temperatures at coronal locations without irrigation and apical locations with irrigation (p = 0.057).
- Irrigation significantly impacted measured external root surface temperature.
Conclusions:
- Irrigation is essential during ultrasonic post removal to mitigate excessive root surface temperature rise.
- Managing heat is critical for preserving periodontal health during endodontic procedures.
- This study highlights the importance of coolant use in ultrasonic procedures involving endodontic posts.
Related Concept Videos
Ultrasonography
Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the body's internal structures. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure that does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, making it widely used in various medical fields. Ultrasonography is used to study heart function, blood flow in the neck or extremities, certain conditions such as gallbladder disease, and fetal growth and development.
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...
Temperature Measurement Sites
A thermometer measures body temperature. The common sites for measuring body temperature are the oral cavity, axillary region, temporal artery, and skin surface, such as the forehead, abdomen, and axilla. True core body temperature is assessed in the rectum, tympanic membrane, pulmonary artery, esophagus, and urinary bladder.
Oral: When assessing oral temperature, the thermometer tip should be placed under the tongue in the posterior sublingual pocket. It offers accurate readings and can be...
Oral: When assessing oral temperature, the thermometer tip should be placed under the tongue in the posterior sublingual pocket. It offers accurate readings and can be...