Comparison of the Shaping Ability of RaCe and FlexMaster Rotary Nickel-Titanium Systems in Simulated Canals

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the shaping ability of RaCe and FlexMaster rotary nickel-titanium instruments in simulated canals. A total of 80 canals with four different shapes were prepared with either RaCe or FlexMaster instruments. Pre- and postoperative images of each canal were recorded and combined using image analysis software. The development of canal aberrations and transportation was assessed. There was a significant difference (p < 0.001) between the systems for time of preparation to apical size 30, .06 taper; FlexMaster instruments took on average 1.86 min and RaCe 1.66 min. One RaCe and two FlexMaster instruments fractured. No zips, elbows, or danger zones were created. One perforation and eight outer widenings were created using FlexMaster instruments; RaCe instruments created two outer widenings. No differences were found between the instruments for direction of transportation. RaCe and FlexMaster nickel-titanium instruments prepared canals rapidly with few aberrations.