In vitro evaluation of temperature rise during different post space preparations

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials

Background:

• Post space preparation is crucial for restoring endodontically treated teeth.
• Excessive heat generated during post space preparation can compromise the integrity of the root structure.
• Understanding the thermal effects of different post drills is essential for clinical safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate temperature changes on the external root surface during post space preparation.
• To compare the thermal effects of six different post drills.
• To identify drills that minimize root surface temperature elevation.

Main Methods:

• Sixty extracted single-rooted human mandibular incisors were used.
• Post space preparation was performed using six distinct post drill systems.
• A noncontact infrared thermometer measured temperature rises in the middle third of the roots.
• Temperature data were recorded and analyzed graphically.

Main Results:

• Significant temperature increases were observed with all tested post drill systems.
• Snowpost 2 exhibited the highest maximum temperature rise (29.95 ± 10.2°C).
• No statistically significant differences in temperature rise were found between Snowpost 2, Snowpost 1, and Relyx 2.

Conclusions:

• All evaluated post drill systems have the potential to cause critical temperature rises on the outer root surface.
• Water coolant usage did not prevent significant thermal elevation.
• Further research may be needed to optimize post drill design for reduced thermal impact.