Assessing Dentinal Microcracks using Micro-CT after Root Canal Preparation with Different Rotary Endodontic File...

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Root canal preparation aims to clean and shape the root canal system.
• Dentinal microcracks can form or propagate during root canal preparation, potentially compromising tooth integrity.
• Evaluating the impact of different rotary endodontic file systems on dentinal microcracks is crucial for clinical decision-making.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the propagation of dentinal microcracks in mesiobuccal (MB) and mesiolingual (ML) canals after preparation with TruNatomy (continuous rotation) and MicroMega ONE RECI (reciprocating motion) systems.
• To assess the effectiveness of both systems in enlarging canals using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT).

Main Methods:

• Fifty human mandibular molars with Vertucci Type IV canal configurations were selected.
• Root canal preparation was performed in MB and ML canals using TruNatomy and MicroMega ONE RECI systems.
• Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) was used for pre- and post-preparation scans to analyze dentinal microcracks and canal volume.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in dentinal microcrack formation or propagation were observed between the TruNatomy and MicroMega ONE RECI systems.
• Microcrack prevalence was 8.0%-12.0% in the ML canal and 12.0%-8.0% in the MB canal for both systems (P = 0.643).
• Both systems significantly increased canal volume without significant differences between them (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• TruNatomy and MicroMega ONE RECI systems exhibit comparable outcomes regarding dentinal microcrack formation and propagation.
• Both systems effectively enlarge root canals while preserving natural anatomy.
• Clinical selection between these systems can be based on ease of use and efficiency, given their similar mechanical effects on dentin integrity.