Comparison of two stainless steel files to shape simulated root canals

The aim of this study was to compare the shaping ability of two stainless steel files using simulated canals. A total of 80 simulated canals of various angles and positions of curvature were prepared by hand using either Mani K-Files or Micro Mega K-Files. Following orifice enlargement each file type was used to prepare 40 canals employing a linear filing motion and an anticurvature stepback technique. Pre- and post-operative longitudinal images of the canals were taken with a video camera and stored and manipulated in a computer with image analysis software. The presence of canal aberrations and the amount of material removed as a result of preparation were determined from composite images of superimposed pre- and post-operative views. Overall, canal preparation with Mani K-Files was significantly quicker (P7<0.0O5) and was associated with fewer instrument failures. Zips and elbows were observed in 70% of specimens with significantly more (P<0.05) occurring following preparation with Micro Mega K-Files. Mani K-Files created significantly more (P<0.01) danger zones. Micro Mega K-Files created significantly wider (P<0.001) zips with significantly more (P<0.01) resin removed from the outer aspect of the curves and, thus, significantly more (P<0.01) transportation. Canal shape had a significant influence on preparation time (P<0.001), the incidence of zips (P<0.05) and danger zones (P<0.005), the width of zips (P<0.001) and transportation at the zips (P<0.001). Under the conditions of this study, Mani K-Files were more effective than Micro Mega K-Files and produced canals with better shapes. Original canal shape had a substantial influence on the outcome of shaping procedures.     

Shaping ability of ProTaper nickel-titanium files in simulated resin root canals

AIM: To determine the shaping ability of ProTaper instruments in simulated root canals. METHODOLOGY: Forty canals with four different shapes in terms of angle (20 degrees and 40 degrees) and position of curvature (straight section before curve: 8 and 12 mm) were enlarged according to the recommendations of the manufacturer with the finishing files F1, F2 and F3 to full working length. Preoperative and postoperative pictures, recorded using a digital camera, were superimposed and aberrations recorded. Measurements were carried out at five different points: at the canal orifice (O); half-way to the orifice in the straight section (HO); beginning of the curve (BC); apex of the curve (AC); end-point (EP). RESULTS: Ten instruments deformed (nine F3 and one S1, all in canals with straight section of 8 mm), one instrument fractured. There were significant differences between the various canal shapes for the amount of resin removed from the inner curve at all points (O: P < 0.05; HO: P = 0.001; BC, AC and EP: P < 0.001); and for the resin removed on the outer curve at points HO, AC and EP (P < 0.001). Mean transportation was towards the inner aspect of the curve in all canal types at points BC, towards the outer aspect at the end-point of preparation (EP) in all canals with 12 mm straight section. In 8 mm straight section canals, four danger zones were found; in 12 mm straight section canals three zips were present. The canal aberrations were produced following the use of the F2 and F3 instruments. There were no aberrations following the use of the F1 instrument. CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of this study, ProTaper instruments performed acceptable tapered preparations in all canal types. When using F2 and F3 in curved canals, care should be taken to avoid excessive removal at the inner curve, leading to danger zones. In addition, care should also be taken to avoid deformation of the F3 instrument.     

Comparison of two sonic handpieces during the preparation of simulated root canals

The objective of this study was to assess and compare two sonic handpieces during the preparation of simulated root canals. A total of 60 simulated canals in clear resin blocks of various angles and positions of curvature were prepared using Shaper files activated either by an MM1500 Sonic Air or an MM1400 Mecasonic hand-piece. Each handpiece was used to prepare 30 canals using an identical preparation procedure which involved a linear filing motion and an anticurvature technique in curved canals. The efficacy of the handpieces was determined for straight and curved canals separately and included an assessment of loss of canal length, weight loss from the blocks, smoothness of canal walls, transportation and overall shape of the prepared canals. Canals were prepared rapidly and effectively by both handpieces. Overall, the MM 1500 handpiece was associated with significantly less distance loss (P< 0.05) and significantly more loss of weight (P<0.01). Only four prepared canals (8%) had hour-glass shapes displaying zips and elbows, each handpiece created two. Only two canals (4%) had danger zones, both were created by the MM1400 handpiece. There was little difference between the handpieces in terms of the smoothness of canal walls, the direction and amount of transportation or the overall shape of canals. Under the conditions of this study, the new MM1400 Mecasonic handpiece performed as well as the established MM 1500 Sonic Air.     

Shaping ability of Quantec Series 2000 rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals: Part 2

The aim of this laboratory based study was to determine the shaping ability of Quantec Series 2000 nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated root canals. A total of 40 canals with four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curve were prepared with Quantec Series 2000 instruments using the technique recommended by the manufacturer. Part 2 of this report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of prevalence of canal aberrations, the amount and direction of canal transportation and overall post-operative shape. Pre- and post-operative images of the canals were taken using a video camera attached to a computer with image analysis software. The pre- and post-operative views were superimposed to highlight the amount and position of material removed during preparation. Twenty-one zips and elbows were created during preparation with a significant difference (P < 0.005) between canal shapes in terms of the incidence of aberrations. Four perforations were created, with significant differences (P < 0.005) between the canal shapes; three ledges were also created but no danger zones. Highly significant differences (P < 0.001) were apparent between the canal shapes in total canal width at specific points along the canal length and in the amount of resin removed from the inner and outer aspects of the curve. Canal transportation at the end-point of preparation was most frequently directed towards the outer aspect of the curve, and without exception in canals with 40° curves. At the beginning of the curve, transportation became more evenly balanced between the inner and outer aspect of the curve, although predominated towards the outer. Transportation was generally directed towards the outer at the orifice, especially in canals with 40° curves. Mean absolute transportation at the various measurement points was less than 0.11 mm; significant differences occurred between canal shapes at the end-point of preparation (P < 0.0001), at the zips (P < 0.005), at the apex (P < 0.0001) and beginning of the curve (P < 0.05) and at the orifice (P < 0.0001). Under the conditions of this study, Quantec Series 2000 rotary nickel-titanium instruments created a relatively large number of aberrations including four perforations. The aberrations were created by the larger instruments implying that these should be used with caution at the full working distance. Scanning electron micrographs of these instruments revealed sharp instrument tips which appeared likely to predispose to transportation and the creation of defects along the outer aspect of severely curved canals.     

Shaping ability of Hero 642 rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals: Part 2

AIM: To determine the shaping ability of Hero 642 nickel-titanium rotary instruments during the preparation of simulated canals. METHODOLOGY: A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes, in terms of angle and position of curvature, were prepared by Hero 642 instruments using a crown-down preparation sequence. Pre- and postoperative images of the canals were taken using a video camera attached to a computer with image analysis software. The pre- and postoperative views were superimposed to highlight the amount and position of material removed during preparation. This report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of prevalence of canal aberrations, the amount and direction of canal transportation and overall postoperative shape. RESULTS: Four zips and four elbows were created during preparation, all in canals with 40 degrees, 12 mm curves. No perforations or danger zones were created. Highly significant differences (P < 0.001) were apparent between the canal shapes in total canal width at the apex and beginning of the curve, and in the amount of resin removed from the inner and outer aspects of the curve at the orifice. Canal transportation was most frequently directed toward the outer aspect of the curve at specific points along the canal, except at the orifice, where it was apparent that canals with 20 degrees curves transported toward the inner. Overall, mean absolute transportation was always less than 0.15 mm; however, significant differences occurred between canal shapes at the end-point (P < 0.01), apex of the curve (P < 0.01) and at the orifice (P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of this study, Hero 642 rotary nickel-titanium instruments created canals with few aberrations and no perforations. The relatively high proportion of aberrations in canals with short, acute curves may indicate that instruments with increased taper should be used with caution at or near the full working distance. Further research in real teeth is necessary to elucidate the full potential of these new rotary instruments for use in root canal preparation.     

Shaping ability of progressive versus constant taper instruments in simulated root canals

AIM: To compare the shaping ability of progressive versus constant taper shaft designed instruments in simulated root canals. METHODOLOGY: Simulated L- and S-shaped resin canals were prepared by ProTaper (progressive taper) and high elasticity in rotation 642 (Hero 642) (constant taper) instruments (n = 10 canals in each case). The pre- and post-instrumentation images were recorded and assessment of the canal shape was completed with image pro plus 5.0. The width of resin removed was measured at 9 measuring points. Incidence of canal aberrations, instrument fracture, preparation time and change of working length were recorded. In addition, the change of curvature and centring ability were also assessed. The data were analysed statistically using Student's t-test or Fisher's exact-test. RESULTS: In both canal types, Hero 642 instruments prepared canals more rapidly (P < 0.01) and maintained working length significantly more accurately than ProTaper instruments (P < 0.05). In canals prepared with Hero 642 instruments, there was less change in curvature. Instrumentation with ProTaper results in transportation towards the outer aspect of the L-shaped curved canals in the apical part and the inner aspect of the S-shaped canals at the curve. Hero 642 instruments had a better centring ability in the apical part of the canal, but resulted in shapes with a poor taper. CONCLUSIONS: ProTaper and Hero 642 instruments prepared curved canals rapidly, maintained working length well and were relatively safe without creating perforations and danger zones. In both canal types, Hero 642 instruments maintained the original canal curvature better, and had a better centring ability in curved canals because of its constant taper design. The taper prepared by Hero 642 instruments in the coronal part of the canal was generally poor.     

Shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals. Part 2

The aim of this laboratory-based study was to determine the shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated root canals. A total of 40 canals with four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curve were prepared with NT Engine and McXim instruments, using the technique recommended by the manufacturer. Part 2 of this report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of prevalence of canal aberrations, the amount and direction of canal transportation and overall postoperative shape. Pre- and postoperative images of the canals were taken using a video camera attached to a computer with image analysis software. The pre- and postoperative views were superimposed to highlight the amount and position of material removed during preparation. No zips, elbows, perforations or danger zones were created during preparation. Forty-two per cent of canals had ledges on the outer aspect of the curve, the majority of which (16 out of 17) occurred in canals with short acute curves. There were significant differences (P<0.001) between canal shapes in terms of the incidence of ledges. There were highly significant differences (P<0.001) between the canal shapes in total canal width at specific points along the canal length and in the amount of resin removed from the inner and outer aspects of the curve. The direction of canal transportation at the endpoint of preparation was most frequently towards the outer aspect of the curve, especially in canals with 40° curves. At the beginning of the curve, transportation in the majority of canals was towards the inner aspect of the curve. Mean absolute transportation was less than 0.03 mm throughout the curve and towards the endpoint, with significant differences between canal shapes occurring at the apex (P<0.05) and at the beginning of the curve (P<0.001). Under the conditions of this study, NT Engine and McXim rotary nickel–titanium instruments created no aberrations other than ledges and produced only minimal transportation. The overall shape of canals was good.     

Shaping ability of GTTM Rotary Files in simulated resin root canals

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of GT Rotary Files in simulated root canals. METHODOLOGY: Forty canals with four different shapes in terms of angle (40 degrees and 60 degrees) and position of curvature (straight section before curve: 8 and 12 mm) were prepared using a crown-down/stepback technique. Pre-operative and post-operative pictures, recorded using an image analysis system, were super-imposed and aberrations recorded. Measurements were carried out at 5 different points: at the canal orifice (0): half-way to the orifice in the straight section (HO); the beginning of the curve (BC); the apex of the curve (AC): the endpoint (EP). RESULTS: Two instrument fractures occurred and 9 instruments were deformed. Overall, eight zips and one ledge were created. There were significant differences (P < 0.001) for the total width of the canals between the various canal shapes at AC, BC and HO. There were significant differences (P < 0.001) for the amount of resin removed from the outer aspect of the curve at AC, BC and HO; and for the amount of resin removed from the inner aspect of the curve at all five measuring points (0, AC and EP (P < 0.05) and HO and BC (P < 0.001)). Mean transportation was towards the inner aspect of the canal in canals with straight sections of 12 mm regardless the curve angle; towards the outer aspect in canals with straight sections of 8 mm and 40 degrees curves at all the five measuring points, and at AC, BC and HO when the curve was 60 degrees. CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of this study, GT Rotary Files produced acceptable canal shapes. In narrow and curved canals, the length of the straight section of the canal determines the direction of transportation more than the angle of the curve. In the 60 degrees curves, a high incidence of instrument deformation was found when using the 0.04 tapered instruments.     

Shaping ability of Quantec Series 2000 rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals: Part 1

The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of Quantec Series 2000 nickel-titanium instruments in simulated canals. A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by Quantec instruments using the technique recommended by the manufacturer. Part 1 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of preparation time, instrument failure, canal blockages, change in canal length and three-dimensional canal form. The time necessary for canal preparation was on average 5.7 min and was significantly influenced ( P < 0.01) by canal shape. One instrument fractured and three size nine instruments deformed; however, canal shape did not influence significantly instrument failure. All of the canals remained patent, none became blocked with debris. The majority of the canals maintained working distance (26 out of 40), however the mean change in length differed significantly ( P < 0.05) between canal types. Overall, canals with 40° curves lost length whilst those with 20° curves gained in length. Examination of intracanal impressions revealed that preparation with Quantec Series 2000 instruments produced canals with definite apical stops, smooth canal walls and good flow and taper. However, the quality of apical smoothness and flow was influenced significantly ( P < 0.0001) by canal shape with specimens having 40° canals displaying less desirable qualities. Under the conditions of this study, Quantec Series 2000 rotary nickel-titanium instruments prepared simulated canals rapidly, safely and with good three-dimensional form.     

Shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals. Part 1

The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of NT Engine and McXim nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated root canals. In all, 40 canals consisting of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by a combination of NT Engine and McXim instruments using the technique recommended by the manufacturer. Part 1 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of preparation time, instrument failure, canal blockages, loss of canal length and three-dimensional canal form. Overall, the mean preparation time for all canals was 6.01 min, with canal shape having a significant effect ( P <0.01) on the speed of preparation. One instrument fractured and only four instruments deformed, with most of the failures occurring in canals with curves which began 12 mm from the orifice, that is, in short acute curves. None of the canals became blocked with debris. Following preparation, 20 canals retained their original working length but 19 lost length and one gained in length; there were significant differences ( P <0.05) between the canal shapes in terms of mean loss of distance and in the category of distance change. Apical stops as determined from intracanal impressions were present in 37 of the canals; 16 were judged to be of good quality and 21 of poor quality. The canals were found to be smooth in the apical half of the canal in 33 specimens and in the coronal half of 39 specimens. All canals had good taper characteristics and 35 had good flow characteristics. Under the conditions of this study, NT Engine and McXim instruments prepared canals rapidly, with few deformations, no canal blockages and with minimal change in working length. The three-dimensional form of the canals demonstrated good flow and taper characteristics.     

Shaping ability of Hero 642 rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals: Part 1

AIM: To determine the general efficacy and shaping ability of Hero 642 nickel-titanium rotary instruments during the preparation of simulated canals. Part 1 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of three-dimensional canal form. METHODOLOGY: A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by Hero 642 instruments using a crown-down preparation sequence. The efficacy of the instruments was assessed in terms of preparation time, instrument failure, canal blockages and loss of canal length. Intra-canal impressions were taken of the prepared canals in order to assess three-dimensional canal form. RESULTS: The mean time for canal preparation was 8.6 min and was influenced significantly (P < 0.05) by canal shape. Two instruments fractured and eight instruments deformed; significant differences were observed between canal shapes (P < 0.05). All of the canals remained patent. Fifteen canals (39.5%) maintained the correct working distance, 15 lost distance and eight canals gained length. Examination of intracanal impressions demonstrated that the majority of canals (79%) had apical stops; canal shape had a significant influence (P < 0.001) on the quality of apical stops. With one exception all canals had smooth canal walls and all of the canals showed good flow characteristics. Taper was poor in 30 canals (79%) and good in eight canals (21%). CONCLUSIONS: Hero 642 rotary nickel-titanium instruments prepared simulated canals rapidly but with a three-dimensional form that lacked adequate taper.     

两种机用镍钛根管预备器械预备"S"形树脂根管的效果观察

目的探讨两种镍钛根管预备器械（ProTaper与Hero642）预备“S”形树脂根管的成形效果。方法将30个“S”形树脂根管模型分为3组，分别使用机用ProTaper（A组）、Hero642（B组）及ProTaper联合Hero642（C组）预备根管。使用扫描仪扫描获取根管图像，使用计算机软件测量预备后根管内、外侧树脂去除量和根管宽度。结果对比相同型号的器械对根尖部弯曲内侧、根尖孔外侧壁树脂去除量，C组与A组差异有统计学意义（P〈0．05），C组对根管内外侧壁的预备较均匀，预备后的根管宽度从根管口到根尖逐渐减小，优于B组预备的根管锥度。结论ProTaper联合Hero642预备“S”形树脂根管时能在维持根管原形的基础上形成锥度良好的管形。     

Shaping ability of two rotary instruments in simulated canals: stainless steel ENDOflash and nickel-titanium HERO Shaper

Aim To compare the shaping ability of two rotary instruments in simulated curved canals: stainless steel ENDOflash Files (KaVo, Biberach, Germany) and the recently introduced nickel‐titanium HERO Shaper instruments (Micro‐Mega, Besançon, France). Methodology Simulated root canals with 35° curves in resin blocks were prepared to size 30, .04 taper (HERO Shaper) using a crowndown technique or size 30, .02 taper (ENDOflash) using a rotary motion and a rotation speed of 400 or 250 rpm respectively. In both groups, irrigation was performed with 1 mL distilled water after each instrument size and Glyde (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) were used. Canals (n = 17 per group) were scanned before, during and after preparation. The assessment of preparation shape was carried out with a computer image analysis program. Material removal was measured at seven points beginning 1 mm from the end‐point of the canal. Statistical analysis was performed using Wilcoxon's test and Fisher's exact test (P < 0.05). Results No instrument fractures, apical blockage or loss of working length(WL) occurred. More zips (10 vs. 4) and more strippings (17 vs. 0) were created with ENDOflash compared with the HERO Shaper. There were significant differences in terms of the amount of resin removed on the inner wall of the curvature obtained with the two instruments (P < 0.0001). On average, HERO Shaper instruments removed material more evenly on the outer and inner wall of the curvature. Considering the different points of measurement, there were significant differences between the two systems both on the inner and outer walls at WL‐1, 2, 5 and 6 mm (P < 0.05). The HERO Shaper had a more centred enlargement compared with the ENDOflash. Conclusions Stainless steel rotary ENDOflash instruments did not perform as well as HERO Shaper instruments and created an increased risk of root canal transportation. Nickel‐titanium rotary HERO Shaper instruments maintained the original curvature significantly better.     

Shaping ability of Profile rotary nickel-titanium instruments with ISO sized tips in simulated root canals: Part 1

The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of ProFile 0.04 taper rotary nickel-titanium instruments with ISO sized tips in simulated canals. A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by ProFile instruments using the 'crown down' approach recommended by the manufacturer. Part 1 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of preparation time, instrument failure, canal blockages, loss of canal length and three-dimensional canal form. The time necessary for canal preparation was on average 5.2 min and was not influenced significantly by canal shape. Three instrument fractures occurred and a further 3 instruments deformed; size 35 instruments failed the most (4) followed by size 30 (2), four of the failures occurred in canals with 40° curves. None of the canals became blocked with debris and change in working distance was minimal. Intra-canal impressions of canal form demonstrated that most canals had apical stops and smooth canal walls whereas all canals had good flow and taper. Under the conditions of this study, ProFile 0.04 taper rotary nickel-titanium instruments with ISO sized tips prepared simulated canals rapidly and created good three-dimensional form.     

Shaping ability of ProFile rotary nickel-titanium instruments with ISO sized tips in simulated root canals: Part 2

The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of ProFile 0.04 taper rotary nickel-titanium instruments with ISO sized tips in simulated canals. A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by ProFile instruments using the 'crown down' approach recommended by the manufacturer. Part 2 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of prevalence of canal aberrations, the amount and direction of canal transportation and the overall post-operative shape. Out of 37 completed specimens 9 zips (24%) and one ledge (3%) were created, but no perforations or danger zones were found. There were significant differences ( P < 0.01) between canal shapes for the incidence of zips and elbows but not for their distance from the end-point of preparation. At specific positions along the canal length there were significant differences between the canal types in terms of their mean total width; overall, at the end-point of preparation and along the curved portion of the canals those specimens with 40° curves were widest. This trend continued for the width of material removed from the outer aspect of the canal curves, whereas along the inner aspect of curves more material was removed in the 20° canals. Overall, transportation was towards the outer aspect of the curve at the end-point of preparation and along the curved portion of canals but more balanced along the straight coronal section. Absolute transportation was small and below 0.1 mm at every position including the zips. Under the conditions of this study, ProFile nickel-titanium rotary instruments with ISO sized tips produced a larger number of zips than expected; however, the degree of zipping was limited and relatively minor.     

Shaping ability of ProFile.04 Taper Series 29 rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated root canals. Part 1

The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of ProFile.04 Taper Series 29 nickel-titanium instruments in simulated canals. A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared by ProFile instruments using a step-down approach. Part 1 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of the instruments in terms of preparation time, instrument failure, canal blockages, loss of canal length and three-dimensional canal form. The time necessary for canal preparation was not influenced significantly by canal shape. No instrument fractures occurred but a total of 52 instruments deformed. Size 6 instruments deformed the most followed by sizes 5, 3 and 4. Canal shape did not influence significantly instrument deformation. None of the canals became blocked with debris and loss of working distance was on average 0.5 mm or less. Intracanal impressions of canal form demonstrated that most canals had definite apical stops, smooth canal walls and good flow and taper. Under the conditions of this study, ProFile.04 Taper Series 29rotary nickel-titanium instruments prepared simulated canals rapidly and created good three-dimensional form. A substantial number of instruments deformed but it was not possible to determine whether this phenomenon occurred because of the nature of the experimental model or through an inherent design weakness in the instruments.     

Shaping ability of ProFile and K3 rotary Ni-Ti instruments when used in a variable tip sequence in simulated curved root canals

AIM: To compare the shaping ability of ProFile and K3 rotary Ni-Ti instruments when used in a variable tip sequence in simulated curved root canals with different curvature and radius. METHODOLOGY: ProFile or K3.06 taper instruments were used to prepare simulated canals of 20 degrees curvature and 5 mm radius (n = 10) and 30 degrees curvature and 3 mm radius canals (n = 10) in resin blocks. All canals were prepared to an apical size 40 at 0.5 mm from the canal terminus using a variable tip crown-down sequence. Pre- and postinstrumentation digital images were recorded, and an assessment of the canal shape was determined using a computer image analysis program. The material removal from the inner and outer wall of the canal was measured at 28 measuring points, beginning 0.5 mm from the end-point of the canal and the data compared using the Mann-Whitney U-test. RESULTS: In 20 degrees and 30 degrees canals both instruments significantly removed more (P < 0.05) material on the outer wall than the inner wall in the apical half of the canal. For ProFile files there was no significant difference in the amount of material removed on the outer canal wall between the 20 degrees and 30 degrees canals. However, in the K3 groups significantly more (P < 0.05) outer canal wall was removed in the apical area in 20 degrees canals. When comparing both instruments the results showed that in 20 degrees canals K3 instruments removed more outer and inner canal wall than ProFile instruments (P < 0.05) but that there was no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the instruments in 30 degrees canals. CONCLUSION: Within the limitation of this study, both rotary nickel-titanium instruments prepared a well-shaped root canal with minimal canal transportation.     

两种机用镍钛根管预备器械在树脂模拟弯曲根管内的成形能力

目的 利用树脂模拟弯曲根管,研究K3和Hero642两种机用镍钛根管预备器械的成形能力.方法 使用K3和hero642分别预备两组树脂模拟弯曲根管至06锥度25#,运用扫描仪采集根管预备前后图像,Image ProPlus软件测量根管预备后的根管宽度和预备前后的弯曲度,使用SPSS13.0统计软件对预备前后树脂模拟弯曲根管宽度和弯曲度变化进行统计学分析.结果 K3组和Hero642组根管预备前后角度的变化分别为（4.11±0.18）°和（4.05±0.23）°,两者差异无统计学意义（P＞0.05）;两组器械预备后根管宽度的比较在根尖1/3、根中1/3和根管口处都无显著性差异（P＞0.05）.结论 两种机用镍钛根管预备器械均能较好地完成根管预备.     

Shaping ability of .04 and .06 taper ProFile rotary nickel–titanium instruments in simulated root canals

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of ProFile .04 and .06 taper rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated canals. METHODOLOGY: A total of 40 simulated root canals made up of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared using the 'crowndown' approach recommended by the manufacturer. Pre-operative pictures of each canal were recorded on optical discs using an image analysis package. The simulated canals were prepared and postoperative pictures superimposed on the original images. RESULTS: No instrument fractures occurred and none deformed; none of the canals became blocked with debris. Change in working distance was, on average, 0.063 mm with 33 canals retaining the correct length. Overall, five zips (12.5%) were created and 24 (60%) canals demonstrated a widened area on the outer aspect of the canal between the end-point and the curve. Two danger zones (5%) were created and two perforations but no ledges were found. Between canal shapes there were highly significant differences (P < 0.0001) for the incidence of zips and elbows but not for the other aberrations. There were highly significant differences (P < 0.0001) for the total width of the canals between the various canal shapes at the apex of the curve, the beginning of the curve and half way to the orifice, and a significant difference (P < 0.05) at the end-point. There were highly significant differences (P < 0.0001) for the amount of resin removed from the outer aspect of the curve at the end-point and at the beginning of the curve, and significant differences (P < 0.05) at the apex of the curve and half way to the orifice. There were highly significant differences (P < 0.0001) for the amount of resin removed from the inner aspect of the curve at the beginning of the curve and half way to the orifice. Overall, transportation was towards the outer aspect of the canal except at the beginning of the curve. CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of this study the combined use of .04 and .06 taper ProFile instruments was rapid, effective and produced good canal shapes except in those specimens with short curves that began near the end-point.     

Comparative study on the shaping ability and cleaning efficiency of rotary Mtwo instruments. Part 1. Shaping ability in simulated curved canals

AIM: To compare the shaping ability of Mtwo instruments with K3 and RaCe instruments. Part 1 of this two-part report describes the efficacy of these nickel-titanium instruments in simulated curved root canals. METHODOLOGY: Simulated canals with 28 degree and 35 degree curves in resin blocks were prepared with Mtwo instruments using a single length technique and with K3 and RaCe instruments using a crowndown preparation technique (n = 20 canals in each case). Pre- and post-instrumentation images were recorded and assessment of canal shape was completed with a computer image analysis program. Material removal was measured at 20 measuring points, beginning 1 mm from the endpoint of preparation. Incidence of canal aberrations, preparation time, changes of working length and instrument failures were also recorded. The data were analysed statistically using ANOVA and Student-Newman-Keuls test. RESULTS: On an average, canals prepared with Mtwo instruments remained better centred compared with those enlarged with K3 or RaCe instruments. Six RaCe instruments, four K3 files and none of the Mtwo instruments fractured during preparation (P > 0.05). In both of the canal types, Mtwo was significantly faster (P < 0.001). It was possible with all types of instruments to control working length as well. CONCLUSIONS: Mtwo instruments prepared curved canals rapidly, respected original canal curvature well and were safe to use.