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Micro-computed Tomographic Analysis of Apical Microcracks before and after Root Canal Preparation by Hand, Rotary,
Bruna Paloma de Oliveira1, Andréa Cruz Câmara1, Daniel Amancio Duarte2
1Department of Prosthodontics and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dental School, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.
Journal of Endodontics
|April 19, 2017
Summary
Root canal shaping using ProTaper Universal, HyFlex CM, and Reciproc files did not create new apical microcracks. Microcracks observed after preparation were pre-existing, indicating these shaping techniques are safe for root canals.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
- Micro-imaging Techniques
Background:
- Apical microcrack formation is a concern during root canal preparation.
- Understanding the impact of different file systems and working lengths is crucial for safe endodontic procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare apical microcrack formation after root canal shaping using hand, rotary, and reciprocating files.
- To evaluate the influence of working length (at the apical foramen vs. 1 mm short) on microcrack development.
Main Methods:
- Sixty mandibular incisors were divided into six groups using ProTaper Universal, HyFlex CM, or Reciproc files.
- Instrumentation was performed at the apical foramen (AF) or 1 mm short of the AF (AF - 1 mm).
- Micro-computed tomographic (micro-CT) scanning was used to detect microcracks before and after preparation.
Main Results:
- 17% of specimens had pre-existing microcracks before instrumentation.
- No new apical microcracks were detected after root canal preparation with any of the tested systems or working lengths.
- The number of microcracks remained consistent before and after instrumentation across all groups.
Conclusions:
- Root canal shaping with ProTaper Universal, HyFlex CM, and Reciproc systems does not induce apical microcracks.
- Working length variations (AF vs. AF - 1 mm) did not influence the formation of new apical microcracks.