Multidimensional Analysis of Curved Root Canal Preparation Using Continuous or Reciprocating Nickel-titanium Instruments

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate transportation (T) and centering ability (CA) of root canal preparations using continuous or reciprocating nickel-titanium endodontic files. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Ninety-six mesiobuccal root canals of mandibular first and second molars were randomly divided into 6 groups (n=16) according to the rotary file used: 1. ProTaper Next; 2. ProTaper Gold; 3. Mtwo; 4. BioRaCe; 5. WaveOne Gold; 6. Reciproc. Root canals were prepared according to manufacturer’s instructions. Cone beam computed tomography scans were obtained before and after root canal preparation. Measurements were made at six different reference points: 2, 3 and 4 mm from the apex and 2, 3 and 4 mm below furcation in different directions. RESULTS: The greatest Mesiodistal (MD) Transportation (T) was found for Reciproc files (p<0.05), and the greatest buccolingual (BL) T, for Reciproc, ProTaper Gold and ProTaper Next files (p<0.05). The greatest Mesiodistal (MD) Centering Ability (CA) was found for BioRaCe files (p<0.05), and the greatest Buccolingual (BL) CA, for BioRaCe and Mtwo files (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: All systems produced root canal transportation. No file system achieved perfect CA of root preparation. Reciproc files had the greatest MD T and BL T. BioRaCe files had the greatest MD CA, whereas BL CA was similar for BioRaCe and Mtwo files.