Evaluation of the Efficacy of Self-Adjusting File Instrumenton Oval-shaped Root Canals

Abstract

Purpose;Oval-shaped canals are a challenge when using rotary files because buccal and/or lingual recesses are commonly left uninstrumented. The aim of this study was to evaluate root canal preparation in flat- oval canals treated with ProTaper, Reciproc or self-adjusting file (SAF) instruments. Methodology; 60 mandibular premolars were divided into three groups. After biomechanical preparation, teeth were embedded in acrylic blocks. Roots were then sectioned 4, 8, and 12 mm from the apex using a precise saw, and the cut surfaces in the apical, middle, and coronal thirds were observed under a stereomicroscope at ×40 magnification. Results;The areas of prepared canal walls were significantly higher with the SAF than the ProTaper or Reciproc instruments (p<0.05). The SAF removed the dentin layer from all around the canal, whereas the others left substantial untouched areas. The area in the apical third of the teeth prepared with the Reciproc was significantly higher than with the other techniques, likely due to the high taper of the Reciproc file (p<0.01).Conclusions;In the coronal third, mean increases in the area of the canal were significantly higher with the SAF than with ProTaper or Reciproc. Using the SAF instrument, flat-oval canals were prepared homogenously and circumferentially.