Selecting drill size for post space preparation based on final endodontic radiographs: An in vitro study

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Restorative Dentistry
• Dental Imaging

Background:

• Intracanal filling material removal is necessary for intraradicular post placement.
• Using inappropriate drill sizes for material removal can lead to canal over-widening, cracks, or root perforation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of post-root canal therapy radiographs in selecting the correct Peeso reamer size for post space preparation.
• To determine if radiographic assessment aids in avoiding iatrogenic damage during post space preparation.

Main Methods:

• Extracted teeth underwent root canal cleaning and shaping.
• Three-dimensional acrylic resin models of canals were created.
• Teeth were filled, radiographed, and Peeso reamers were selected based on canal diameter from radiographs.
• Reamer diameters were compared to resin model canal diameters.

Main Results:

• Peeso reamer diameters were within 0.21 mm smaller to 0.12 mm larger than actual canal diameters.
• In 75% of cases, the difference between the reamer and canal diameter was less than 0.1 mm.
• Radiographic selection demonstrated high accuracy in matching canal dimensions.

Conclusions:

• Post-operative endodontic radiographs are dependable for selecting Peeso reamer sizes.
• This radiographic method helps prevent encroachment on the dentinal wall during post space preparation.
• Accurate reamer selection minimizes risks associated with post placement procedures.