A Multimethod Assessment of a New Customized Heat-Treated Nickel-Titanium Rotary File System

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Endodontic rotary systems are crucial for root canal preparation.
• Evaluating new rotary systems like Genius Proflex, Vortex Blue, and TruNatomy is essential for clinical practice.
• Understanding instrument design, metallurgy, and mechanical properties informs performance and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the design, metallurgy, mechanical performance, and shaping ability of three endodontic rotary systems: Genius Proflex, Vortex Blue, and TruNatomy.
• To assess differences in R-phase transition, cyclic fatigue resistance, flexibility, torque, and shaping efficacy.
• To provide data for clinicians to make informed decisions on rotary instrument selection.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of Genius Proflex, Vortex Blue, and TruNatomy instruments (n=41 per group).
• Evaluation of design, metallurgy (nickel-titanium ratio), and mechanical properties (R-phase, cyclic fatigue, flexibility, torque).
• Shaping ability assessment in simulated root canals (n=36) measuring untouched walls, dentin removal, and debris generation.

Main Results:

• All instruments exhibited symmetrical cross-sections, asymmetrical blades, and near-equiatomic nickel-titanium ratios, with variations in blade count, helical angles, and tip geometry.
• Genius Proflex and TruNatomy showed significant differences in R-phase temperatures and cyclic fatigue resistance (p < 0.05).
• TruNatomy demonstrated superior flexibility (p < 0.05), while shaping ability, maximum torque, and angle to fracture were comparable across all systems (p > 0.05), with no significant procedural errors.

Conclusions:

• Despite variations in design, metallurgy, and mechanical properties, the tested endodontic rotary systems demonstrated similar shaping ability.
• No significant procedural errors were observed, suggesting comparable clinical safety.
• Understanding the specific characteristics of each system aids clinicians in selecting the most appropriate instrument for endodontic treatment.