Comparison of two ultrasonic units in shaping simulated curved canals

The effects of ultrasonic instrumentation on the preparation shape of curved simulated canals were investigated. Measurements of the displacement amplitudes of the files were made to examine the possible relationship between displacement amplitude and the cutting ability of the file. Twenty-five simulated canals in clear resin blocks were instrumented using a Cavi-Endo unit at a power setting of 1 with differing times of instrumentation and with water as irrigant. Another group of 25 canals received similar treatment but were instrumented with an Enac unit at a power setting of 1. The canal shape and the incidence of elbow formation were evaluated using various measurements taken from photographic prints of the canals. All canals exhibited unequal removal along the canal with more removal occurring coronally. The Enac group exhibited a higher incidence of elbows which occurred further apically than those in the Cavi-Endo group. There was no significant difference between groups in the amount of apical canal enlargement. Coronally, the Enac appeared to cut significantly better. The Enac also caused significantly greater apical deviation and change in width. In both units more elbows were formed following instrumentation, with less flexible files having smaller displacement amplitudes.