Shaping of simulated root canals in resin blocks using files activated by a sonic handpiece

A total of 180 simulated root canals in clear resin blocks with various lengths and degree of curvature were prepared by either Heliosonic, Rispisonic or Shaper files activated by a sonic handpiece. Each file type was used to prepare 60 canals employing an in/out, circumferential filing motion. The efficacy of the sonic handpiece and the three file designs were assessed by instrumentation time, deformation and fracture of instruments and loss of working distance. The shape of the prepared canals was assessed by direct observation and from composite photographic prints produced by super-imposing negatives of the canals obtained before and after preparation. Overall, canal shaping with the Rispisonic and Shaper files was rapid and efficient whilst that with the Heliosonic files was slower and ineffective. With each file type, prepared straight canals displayed a continuously tapering form that was narrowest at their end-point. The majority of curved canals prepared with Heliosonic files were hourglass in shape whilst the majority prepared with the Rispisonic and Shaper files were tapered. Zips and elbows were only created with Rispisonic and Shaper files in those canals with very short, acute curves. Under the conditions of this study the use of Rispisonic and Shaper files activated by a sonic handpiece proved a satisfactory method of shaping simulated root canals in resin blocks.