A comparison of root surfaces following apical root resection with various burs: Scanning electron microscopic evaluation

Abstract

A scanning electron microscope was used to evaluate the surface properties of the cut root end and gutta-percha obturating material following apical root resection. The palatal roots of 35 extracted human maxillary molars were instrumented and obturated with laterally condensed gutta-percha and Roth 801 sealer. Thirty roots were divided into six equal groups and apical root resections were performed using three bur configurations in both high-speed and low-speed handpieces. Five roots were resected with a slow-speed diamond saw and served as controls. Different surface characteristics were produced using the same bur configuration with the high- and low-speed handpieces. The smoothest surface and the least amount of guttapercha disturbance was produced by the #57 plain fissure bur in the low-speed handpiece. The roughest and most irregular surfaces were produced by the crosscut fissure burs in both high- and low-speed resections. Both the crosscut and plain fissure burs tended to shred and tear the gutta-percha when used with the high-speed handpiece.