Comparison of Efficiency of Gutta Percha Removal in Retreatment Using Protaper Retreatment Files, Race Instruments...

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science

Background:

• Root canal retreatment is crucial for endodontic success.
• Effective removal of gutta-percha and sealer is essential for cleaning root canal systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of three rotary retreatment systems: ProTaper Universal, D-Race, and Reciproc R.
• To evaluate the percentage of gutta-percha and sealer removal from root canal walls.

Main Methods:

• 75 mandibular first premolars were obturated with gutta-percha and AH Plus sealer.
• Pre- and post-retreatment cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans were utilized for analysis.
• Teeth were divided into three groups and retreated using ProTaper Universal, D-Race, or Reciproc R systems.

Main Results:

• No system completely removed all filling material.
• The Reciproc R system showed significantly higher efficacy in removing gutta-percha and sealer.
• ProTaper Universal was the least effective system in this regard.

Conclusions:

• The Reciproc R system offers superior performance for gutta-percha and sealer removal during root canal retreatment.
• Further research may explore modifications to enhance the effectiveness of all tested systems.