Reciproc Endodontic File Surface Defects After Single Use: An SEM Analysis

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this investigation was to detect defects that may occur to Reciproc endodontic files after a single use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A sample of convenience of Reciproc files (VDW GmbH, Munich, Germany) that were used to prepare root canals of anterior or posterior teeth were collected. The files were divided equally into two groups: Group 1 (R25) files were used to prepare mesial root canals of 50 human permanent mandibular molars, and Group 2 (R40) included 50 files that were used to prepare permanent maxillary incisor teeth. Files were analyzed after single use by using a scanning electron microscope at X120 to detect changes in surface morphology. The data were statistically analyzed by using the χ(2) test, and statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 96 Reciproc NiTi files were collected; of those, 67 (70%) were unaffected and 29 (30%) showed overall surface deformations. The types of deformation were blade disruption (22%), surface pitting (12%), and unwinding and tip deformation (1%). No microcracks were detected, and none of the studied files showed fracture. R40 was three times more likely to be deformed and showed blade disruption compared with R25 (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Reciproc rotary NiTi files show high resistance to deformation after a single use. Blade disruption was the most frequent defect occurring in both the small and large files.