Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2025
03:07
Scanning Electron Microscopic Evaluation of Surface Defects of Remover Retreatment File After Single and Multiple Uses
Published on: October 11, 2024
561
Removal of Thermafil Obturators Using 2 Different Techniques: A Comparative Ex Vivo Study
Michael Hülsmann1, Max Klinger2, Martha Rizk3
1Center of Dental Medicine, Clinic for Preventive Dentistry, Periodontology and Cariology, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
Journal of Endodontics
|May 10, 2023
Summary
Reciproc instruments were more effective for removing Thermafil carriers from curved root canals than the FragRemover device. However, Reciproc removed more dentin in the apical region, while FragRemover left more filling material.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Thermafil obturators are commonly used in root canal filling.
- Removal of obturators can be challenging, especially in curved canals.
- Existing retrieval methods may have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of two retrieval techniques for Thermafil obturators.
- To evaluate the amount of remaining filling material and removed dentin.
- To assess complications associated with each retrieval method.
Main Methods:
- Ex vivo study on 60 mandibular molars with curved root canals.
- Thermafil obturators (size 35) were used for root canal filling.
- Obturator removal was performed using either FragRemover or reciprocating NiTi instruments (Reciproc).
- Micro-CT scans were used to quantify remaining material and removed dentin.
Main Results:
- Reciproc successfully removed 80% of Thermafil carriers, leaving less filling material but removing more apical dentin.
- FragRemover removed 40% of carriers, leaving more filling material and less apical dentin.
- Reciproc had fewer complications (7) compared to FragRemover (64).
- FragRemover showed a higher failure rate (P < .05) for carrier removal.
Conclusions:
- Reciproc is more effective for Thermafil carrier removal in curved canals.
- FragRemover preserves more apical dentin but is less effective and has more complications.
- The choice of retrieval method impacts efficacy, dentin removal, and procedural safety.
