[Root canal preparation for obturation using nickel-titanium mechanical devices]

Engine-driven ProFile instruments manufactured by Maillefer (Switzerland) and Tulsa Dental Products (USA) have been used for cleaning and shaping root canals. Both of them are nickel titanium, U-shaped instruments designed for a controlled slow speed (250 rpm) rotary handpiece. In contrast to the Maillefer instruments ProFile Series 29 files (Tulsa Dental) show a constant 29% increase between tip diameters. As these more tapered instruments (ProFile 0.04; 0.06) are rotated, they produce a "crown-down" preparation, resulting in a tunnelform taper from orifice to apex. According to our experiences ProFile instruments are useful alternative tools for root canal preparation quickly and efficiently.