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Shaping Efficiency of Heat-Treated Reciprocating Systems in Mandibular Molars: A Micro-CT Analysis
Thamires Custódio Matos1, Rayana Duarte Khoury1, Carlos Henrique Sales Dias Santos1
1Department of Restorative Dentistry, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Institute of Science and Technology, São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil.
European Journal of Dentistry
|December 18, 2025
Summary
This study compared WaveOne Gold, R-Motion, and Reciproc Blue systems for root canal shaping. All systems showed similar performance, but a second preparation stage significantly reduced untouched canal walls, improving cleaning potential.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Root canal preparation aims to clean and shape the root canal system.
- Different nickel-titanium rotary systems exist with varying designs and tapers.
- Evaluating shaping ability is crucial for endodontic treatment success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the shaping ability of WaveOne Gold, R-Motion, and Reciproc Blue systems.
- To assess untouched canal areas, canal transportation, and centering ability.
- To evaluate the effect of different apical sizes and tapers on shaping performance using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT).
Main Methods:
- Thirty mandibular molar mesial roots with single curvature were divided into three groups (n=10).
- Canals were prepared using WaveOne Gold (25/.07v, 35/.06v), R-Motion (25/.06, 40/.04), or Reciproc Blue (25/.08v, 40/.06v) in two sequential stages.
- Micro-CT analysis assessed untouched canal walls, transportation, and centering ratio at 3, 5, and 7 mm from the apex before, between, and after instrumentation.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in preoperative canal volume or surface area among groups.
- All tested systems demonstrated similar shaping performance regarding untouched areas, transportation, and centering ability.
- A significant reduction in untouched canal walls was observed after the second preparation stage across all groups (p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- WaveOne Gold, R-Motion, and Reciproc Blue systems exhibit comparable shaping abilities in curved canals.
- A two-stage preparation approach significantly enhances the reduction of untouched canal walls.
- The findings suggest that a sequential instrumentation strategy may improve root canal cleaning efficacy.

