The efficacy of two rotary NiTi instruments and H-files to remove gutta-percha from root canals

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of R-Endo (R) and K3 (R) rotary nickel-titanium instruments compared with manual instrumentation with H-files, with use of a solvent, for removal of gutta-percha during retreatment. Study design: Forty five freshly extracted human single-rooted teeth, each with one root canal, were instrumented with K-files and filled using cold lateral compaction of gutta-percha and AH 26 (R) sealer. The teeth were randomly divided into three groups of 15 specimens each. Removal of gutta-percha was performed with the following devices and techniques: Group 1 (H-files), Group 2 (R-Endo (R)), and Group 3 (K3 (R)). The specimens were rendered transparent for the evaluation of the area of remaining gutta-percha/sealer in buccolingual and mesiodistal directions. Statistical analysis as performed by using one-way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests (p=0.05). Results: All retreatment techniques used in this study left some filling material inside the root canal. Images in buccolingual and mesiodistal directions showed no significant differences between the groups (p>0.05). Conclusions: Under the experimental conditions, the remaining filling material after retreatment was similar for each group.