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Published on: April 8, 2020
Fracture Resistance of Endodontically Treated Teeth with Different Perforation Diameters: An In Vitro Analysis
Flora Kakoura1, Kleoniki Lyroudia1, Nikolaos Economides1
1Department of Endodontology, School of Dentistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
Iatrogenic root perforations significantly reduce the fracture resistance (FR) of endodontically treated teeth. Larger perforation diameters (2.1 mm and 1 mm) were associated with a notable decrease in FR compared to intact teeth.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomechanical Engineering
Background:
- Iatrogenic root perforations are procedural complications during endodontic treatment.
- The structural integrity and fracture resistance (FR) of endodontically treated teeth can be compromised by perforations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the correlation between the diameter of iatrogenic root perforations and the fracture resistance (FR) of endodontically treated teeth.
- To quantify the impact of different perforation sizes on root strength.
Main Methods:
- Sixty-five single-rooted teeth were prepared and divided into five groups: intact, instrumented only, and instrumented with perforations of 2.1 mm, 1 mm, or 0.5 mm.
- Perforations were standardized in location and angle (105° to root surface).
- Fracture testing was performed using a universal testing machine applying vertical compressive load until fracture; data analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey test.
Main Results:
- Mean fracture loads were: Group 1 (intact) 342.68 N, Group 2 (instrumented) 322.96 N, Group 3 (2.1 mm perforation) 214.65 N, Group 4 (1 mm perforation) 212.66 N, and Group 5 (0.5 mm perforation) 307.14 N.
- Statistically significant reductions in FR were observed for teeth with 2.1 mm and 1 mm perforations compared to intact teeth (p < 0.05).
- The 0.5 mm perforation group did not show a statistically significant decrease in FR.
Conclusions:
- Iatrogenic root perforations, particularly those measuring 2.1 mm and 1 mm in diameter, significantly compromise the fracture resistance of endodontically treated teeth.
- The size of the perforation is a critical factor influencing the mechanical stability of the root.
- Minimizing perforation size during endodontic procedures is crucial for maintaining root strength.
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