Torsional and stiffness properties of nickel-titanium K files

The purpose of this study was to compare stiffness and resistance to fracture of four brands of nickel titanium K files. Instruments of sizes 15 to 40 were tested according to ANSI/ADA Specification No. 28. Resistance to fracture was determined by twisting and measuring the maximum torque and angular deflection at failure. Stiffness was determined by measuring the moment required to bend the instrument 45 degrees. The permanent deformation angle remaining between the tip and the flutes of the instruments after bending ceased was also recorded. Nickel titanium K files satisfied and far exceeded specification standards for stiffness. They also satisfied and exceeded the standards for angular deflection at failure. They met or exceeded the maximum torque at failure standards in all sizes except for the size 40 of the Maillefer Niti, and the size 30 of the MacSpadden Niti. Nickel titanium K files presented a null permanent deformation angle. Clinical studies are required to evaluate the influence of low bending moment on other properties such as breakage and canal transportation.