A new device to test cutting efficiency of mechanical endodontic instruments

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Evaluating the cutting efficiency of endodontic instruments is crucial for clinical success.
• Existing methods for assessing cutting efficiency may have limitations.
• A novel device is needed to accurately measure the cutting performance of endodontic instruments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a new device specifically designed for assessing the cutting efficiency of mechanically driven endodontic instruments.
• To compare the cutting efficiency of endodontic files when used in reciprocating versus continuous rotational modes.

Main Methods:

• Twenty new Reciproc R25 files were tested using the newly developed cutting efficiency evaluation device.
• The device utilized a Plexiglas block, and the length cut in one minute was measured via a computerized program.
• Instruments were activated using a torque-controlled motor in either reciprocating motion (Reciproc ALL program) or continuous rotation at 300 rpm.

Main Results:

• The mean length cut in Plexiglas by Reciproc files in reciprocation mode was 8.6 mm (SD=0.6 mm).
• The mean length cut by Reciproc files in rotation mode was 8.9 mm (SD=0.7 mm).
• Statistical analysis (one-way ANOVA) revealed no significant difference in cutting efficiency between the two modes (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

• The newly developed cutting testing device is reliable and user-friendly.
• The device can be effectively utilized for evaluating the cutting efficiency of both rotary and reciprocating endodontic instruments.
• Reciproc files demonstrated comparable cutting efficiency in both tested modes.