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Introduction This study evaluated the microbiological conditions of the apical root canal system of teeth with posttreatment apical periodontitis and correlated them with observations from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and histopathology. Methods Root apices were obtained from 36 root canal-treated teeth subjected to perirradicular surgery. CBCT exam was available before surgery. The apical root specimens were scanned in a micro-CT device and then cryopulverized. The powder was subjected to DNA extraction for real-time polymerase chain reaction quantification of total bacteria, Streptococcus species, members of the phylum Actinobacteria, and Enterococcus faecalis. Microbiological findings were evaluated for associations with CBCT, micro-CT and histopathologic data. An association between lesion size and the proportion of unfilled apical canal system volume was also assessed. Results All cryopulverized specimens were positive for total bacteria. Actinobacteria and streptococci occurred in 35 and 33 specimens, respectively, and were usually dominant in the community. Actinobacteria counts were 2.23 times higher in granulomas than in cysts. Streptococcus were significantly more present in small lesion cases. E. faecalis was detected in only 7 samples, always as a dominant community member. Association of total bacteria, streptococci and Actinobacteria counts with the unfilled canal volume was significant in the univariate analyses, but not confirmed in the adjusted analyses. Large lesions were significantly associated with a higher volume of unfilled apical canal. Conclusions Bacterial infection occurred in all root apices, with high prevalence and dominance of Actinobacteria and streptococci. The volume of unfilled apical canal system was significantly associated with the lesion size and possibly with bacterial counts. Findings illustrate the need to thoroughly disinfect and fill the apical root canal of infected teeth during endodontic therapy.

To evaluate the influence of various endodontic access cavity designs and the use of an operating microscope (OM) with or without ultrasonic troughing to detect middle mesial canals (MMCs) in extracted mandibular first molars.Sixty extracted mandibular first molars were evaluated by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in order to detect the presence of MMCs and then divided into two groups (n = 30) with an equal proportion of 1 molar with MMC for each 3 molars. A specific access cavity design was performed for each group, either a conservative access cavity (CAC) or a traditional access cavity (TAC). Root canals were detected in three assessment stages: (i) no magnification, (ii) using an OM and (iii) using an OM together with ultrasonic troughing. Evaluations were performed on a mannequin head in an ergonomic working position. The confidence obtained in the assessment stages was portrayed by sensitivity, specificity and accuracy, calculated by the area under the ROC curve. The difference in the proportion of correct diagnoses in identifying the MMC using either CAC or TAC preparation, at each of the three stages, was checked using Cochran's Q tests. Binomial tests were performed at each stage to investigate whether there was a difference between the types of endodontic access designs to detect MMCs. Significance was set at P 0.05.Accuracy increased at each assessment stage. At the third stage, both groups provided perfect accuracy (1.00). Cochran's Q tests indicated that the confidence of MMC detection for both TAC and CAC groups (P 0.05) increased significantly at each stage. Binomial tests demonstrated that there was no significant difference between the TAC and CAC groups, when evaluation was performed without magnification (P 0.05), with OM (P 0.05), or with OM associated with ultrasonic troughing (P 0.05).The access cavity design did not significantly affect detection of middle mesial canals in extracted mandibular first molars placed in a mannequin. However, the use of OM increased the accuracy of the MMC identification, especially when associated with ultrasonic troughing.

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to perform a quality assessment and provide a scientific-based checklist for prevalence studies on root and root canal anatomy by appraising the methodological quality of in vivo studies using cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging as the assessment tool. Methods: A systematic assessment of the literature was conducted, and 211 studies were selected and submitted to a methodological evaluation. Data were grouped into categories such as journal impact factor, open access availability, language, study origin, journal publisher, sample size, and CBCT settings. Interrater agreement was calculated by applying the Holsti method and Cohen kappa. The Kruskal- Wallis test and Pearson correlation coefficient were undertaken to assess the different variables (a 5 0.05). Results: The included studies (N 5 211) reported data on 247,616 teeth from 41 countries. The maxillary first molar was the most studied tooth (n 5 69) and the second mesiobuccal canal the most investigated anatomic feature. The highest scores were associated with high-impact journals (r 5 0.482, P , .05), large sample sizes (r 5 0.374, P , .05), non–open access availability (P , .05), and English-based language (P , .05), but geographic region and journal publisher also had an impact on quality scores. The identified methodological gaps were used to formulate a scientific-based checklist for this type of study. Conclusions: Although a small improvement in the global quality of the studies was observed over the years, only less than half of the studies correctly addressed the participant recruitment and frame and had an adequate sample size or provided sufficient CBCT imaging settings. The proposed checklist highlights the most pertinent points to guide researchers throughout the experimental design and the implementation of epidemiological crosssectional studies of this nature.

To evaluate the effects of alcohol and nicotine, when used alone or simultaneously, in the development of apical periodontitis induced in rats, using a correlative analytic approach with micro-CT, histological and immunohistochemical analysis.Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were arranged into four groups: Control, Nicotine, Alcohol and Alcohol + Nicotine. The alcohol groups were exposed to self-administration of a 25% alcohol solution, whilst the other groups drunk only filtered water. The nicotine groups received daily intraperitoneal injections of a solution with 0.19 μL of nicotine per mL, whilst the other groups received saline solution. The pulps of the left mandibular first molars were exposed for 28 days to induce periapical lesions. Throughout the experiment, drug administration was maintained, and the animals had their weight and solid and liquid consumption measured. After euthanasia, the mandibles were removed and the area, volume and major diameter of the periapical lesions were measured using micro-computed tomography images. The samples were submitted to histopathological evaluation and immunohistochemistry for RANKL and PTHrP. Statistical analysis was undertaken with a significance level of 5%. Nonparametric data were analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn's test, whilst one-way anova followed by Tukey's test was performed for parametric data.The alcohol groups had lower solid and liquid consumption and gained less weight when compared to the nonalcohol groups (P 0.05). The Alcohol + Nicotine group had lesions with significantly larger volume and area when compared to the other groups (P 0.05), whilst the Alcohol or Nicotine groups had significantly larger lesions than the control group (P 0.05). There was no significant difference in the largest diameter of the lesions amongst groups (P 0.05). The experimental groups had greater inflammatory response scores than the control group (P 0.05), and the representative samples had more pronounced immunoreaction against RANKL and PTHrP antibodies.Alcohol and nicotine consumption exacerbated the inflammatory response and the development of periradicular lesions in rats. The association of both substances enhanced their harmful effects.

Aim To evaluate the effect of the addition of surfactants to sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) on the removal of accumulated hard tissue debris (AHTD), before and after final irrigation with 17% EDTA, from mesial canals of mandibular molars through microcomputed tomographic (micro-CT) analysis. Methodology Thirty moderately curved mandibular mesial roots with Vertucci type II canal configuration were selected and scanned in a micro-CT device at an isotropic resolution of 22.9 μm. The specimens were assigned to three groups (n = 10) with respect to the root length, degree of curvature of the mesial root, volume and 3D anatomy of the root canals according to the irrigating solution used during root canal preparation: 2.5% NaOCl and 0.1% Benzalkonium Chloride, 2.5% NaOCl and 0.1% Tween 80 and 2.5% NaOCl without additives. The root canals were instrumented up to Reciproc R25 instrument. Then, the specimens were scanned again after canal preparation and after final irrigation with 17% EDTA, and the registered data sets were examined to evaluate the percentage of AHTD. For comparison between the different groups before and after using 17% EDTA, the Kruskal-Wallis test was used with a significance level of 5%. For comparison between the same groups before and after using 17% EDTA, the Wilcoxon test was used with a significance level of 5%. Results None of the irrigant solutions tested was able to completely eliminate hard tissue debris from mesial canals of mandibular molars. There were no significant differences in the percentage of AHTD amongst the different irrigation solutions (P > 0.05). Final irrigation with 17% EDTA significantly reduced the percentage of AHTD (P 0.05). Conclusions The addition of surfactants to NaOCl did not affect the removal of AHTD from mesial canals of extracted mandibular molars. Final irrigation with 17% EDTA significantly improved AHTD removal.

This study aimed to compare the in vivo accuracy of Wirele-X and RootZX II electronic apex locators (EALs) in determining the position of the major foramen using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) as the analytical tool.Eleven vital teeth planned for extraction from 5 patients were used. After conventional access cavity preparation, root canals were flared and negotiated up to the apical third with sizes 08 and 10 K-files followed by irrigation with 2.5% NaOCl. K-type files were used to determine the working length of the selected canals using Root ZX II and Wirele-X apex locators until their numeric displays read "0.0." After fixing the silicon stop to the file, teeth were extracted and imaged in a micro-CT device using a double-scan protocol. Image stacks, with and without the file in the root canal, were then co-registered and the measurement error calculated as the absolute difference between the tip of the file and the major foramen. Positive and negative values were recorded when the file tip was detected beyond or short of the major foramen, respectively. Accuracy was determined on stable measurements within ± 0.5 mm when the file tip did not extend beyond the major foramen. The χWithin a tolerance level of ± 0.5 mm, no significant differences were observed between the tested EALs regarding the absolute distance values (P = .82) or in their ability to detect the position of the major foramen (χRoot ZX II and Wirele-X performed similarly regarding the in vivo detection of the major foramen. Using strict criteria, the accuracy of the Root ZX II and the Wirele-X apex locators were 81.8% and 90.9%, respectively.

The impact triggered by the introduction of nickel-titanium (NiTi) instrument-driven mechanical preparation in endodontics was significant. From that point on, several concepts, clinical practice, and how new professionals were educated have changed the specialty forever, resulting in an unprecedented scientific and clinical revolution. A new era of courses, meetings and scientific advancements rapidly arose in the field, boosted by a fast-paced release of new instruments and systems into the market. Nevertheless, since its inception, root canal preparation with NiTi rotary systems has been haunted ghosted by a high incidence of instrument fracture. Together with the recognized difficulty in a fast-progressing root canal enlargement toward the apex, the risk of instrument fracture has triggered the industry into a constant and hurried seek for advancements in designs and metallurgical properties in order to increase their safety and cutting efficiency. The present chapter describes this revolution by making a historical categorization of the major thoughts driving the industrial and the scientific progress of mechanical preparation of root canals. The logical thinking grounded on the need to find the best design and safest NiTi alloy coupled with a major lack of in-depth discussions around the topic has led to the rise of hundreds of NiTi systems now available on the market, without any real innovations. Therefore, the initial revolution driven by rotary movement was progressively dominated by the “more of the same” phenomenon, a modern capitalist-based narrative grounded on a heavy and easy marketing and advertising approaches responsible for making dentists believe that a huge availability of instruments is in fact good for the specialty. We aim to demonstrate how far it is from the truth as the developments of new rotary systems are so speedy and market-driven that they indeed lack real innovation and scientific scrutiny before becoming available.

AIM To evaluate the influence of traditional and conservative access cavity preparations on the remaining dentine thickness in the coronal third of mesial canals of extracted mandibular molars prepared with reciprocating instruments using micro-computed tomography as the analytical tool. METHODOLOGY Seventy extracted mandibular molars were scanned at a pixel size of 19 μm. From this initial sample, 20 teeth were selected, pair-matched and distributed into two groups (n = 10) according to the access cavity preparation: traditional (TradAC) or conservative (ConsAC). The root canals were sequentially enlarged with Reciproc Blue R25 (size 25, 0.08v taper) and R40 (size 40, 0.06v taper) instruments. A new scan was performed and the postoperative stacks were coregistered with their respective preoperative datasets. A colour-coded cross sections of the roots were created and used to identify and measure the smallest dentine thickness related to both MB and ML canals at 1.0-mm intervals from the furcation level of up to 5 mm in the apical direction, in both mesial and distal aspects of the roots, before and after preparation. The statistical analyses were performed with paired-samples t-test, independent-samples Student T-test and Chi-Square test with a significance level of 5%. RESULTS At all levels of both groups, dentine thickness before preparation was greater than after preparation (p .05), but a significantly greater reduction was observed to the distal aspect of the roots (p

This study assessed the prevalence of radix entomolaris and 2 canals at the distal aspect of mandibular first molars among different geographic regions by means of cone-beam computed tomographic imaging.Precalibrated observers from 23 worldwide geographic locations followed a standardized screening protocol to assess 5750 cone-beam computed tomographic images of mandibular first molars (250 per region), gathering demographic data and recording the presence of radix entomolaris and a second canal at the distal aspect of teeth. Intra- and interrater reliability tests were conducted and comparisons among groups were performed using proportions and odds ratio forest plots. The significance level was set at 5%.The results of intra- and interrater tests were above 0.79. The prevalence of radix entomolaris varied from 0.9% in Venezuela (95% confidence interval [CI], 0%-1.9%) to 22.4% in China (95% CI, 17.2%-27.6%). Regarding the proportion of a second distal canal, it ranged from 16.4% in Venezuela (95% CI, 11.8%-21.0%) to 60.0% in Egypt (95% CI, 53.9%-66.1%). The East Asia subgroup was associated with a significantly higher prevalence of an extra distolingual root, whereas the American subgroup, the American native ethnic group, and elderly patients were linked to significantly lower percentages of a second canal at the distal aspect of teeth. No significant differences were noted between male or female patients.The overall worldwide prevalence rates of radix entomolaris and a second canal at the distal aspect of the mandibular first molar were 5.6% and 36.9%, respectively. The East Asia geographic region and Asian ethnic group had a higher prevalence of a second distal root.

To assess C-shaped root canal configuration by identifying its prevalence and each configuration type proportion, according to tooth (mandibular first or second molar) and demographic characteristics in a Brazilian population, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Moreover, it was verified if there is a relationship between root canal configuration observed in two-dimensional reconstructions of CBCT and presence of C-shape. Mandibular jaw CBCT scans (184 males and 220 females, aged 15 to 80 years), which presented 1464 mandibular molars (710 first molars and 754 second molars), were assessed. Teeth were evaluated for the presence and type of C-shaped root canals by observing the roots at five levels in CBCT axial reconstructions. Root canal configuration was assessed in panoramic reconstructions. Data were statistically analyzed at a significance level of 5%. Of the 1464 mandibular molars, 125 (8.5%) were classified as C-shaped. This variation was more prevalent in females (n = 107, 85.6%) and in second molars (n = 108, 86.4%). C1 (uninterrupted C-shaped canal) was the most prevalent type of C-shaped configuration (41.76%), while C5 (no canal lumen) was the least prevalent type (0.96%). Single root with single canal in panoramic reconstructions was the most predominant configuration for C-shaped teeth (n = 54, 43.2%). Fused roots presented 17.2 higher odds of being associated with C-shaped root canals than non-fused roots. C-shaped root canals were more prevalent in mandibular second molars and in females. Additionally, clinicians should bear in mind the greater possibility of C-shaped configuration in mandibular molars with fused roots. Mandibular molars with C-shaped canals present a clinical challenge. A higher C-shaped proportion was noted in radiographic fused root types, which had 17.2 higher odds of presenting such anatomy when compared to radiographic non-fused roots. Root radiographic features may help in diagnosis of complex C-shaped morphologies.

This study evaluated the antimicrobial effectiveness of 6.5% Vitis vinifera grape seed extract (GSE) against Enterococcus faecalis biofilm using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Saline solution (SS), 5.25% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) were used for comparison. Dentin discs were inoculated with E. faecalis strain establishing a 3-week-old biofilm. Discs (n = 10) were exposed to 5.25% NaOCl, 2% CHX, 6.5% GSE and SS (negative control) for 10 min. Discs were stained with the fluorescent LIVE/DEAD-BacLight™ dye and analysed using CLSM. The proportion of dead cells in biofilm was analysed using one-way anova and Tukey tests (P

To evaluate the influence of ultraconservative endodontic cavities (UEC) on canal shaping and filling ability, cleaning of the pulp chamber, time required to perform root canal treatment and fracture resistance of 2-rooted maxillary premolars in comparison with traditional endodontic access cavities (TEC) in extracted teeth placed in a phantom head to simulate clinical conditions.Twenty extracted intact 2-rooted maxillary premolars were scanned in a micro-computed tomographic device, matched based on similar anatomical features of the canals and assigned to UEC or TEC groups (n = 10). Then, teeth were mounted on a mannequin head and their pulp chamber accessed. After canal preparation, filling and cavity restoration, the time required to perform root canal treatment was recorded and the specimens were loaded to fracture in a universal testing machine. The maximum load at fracture was recorded. The sample was scanned after root canal instrumentation, filling and restoration procedures. Untouched canal areas, accumulation of hard-tissue debris (AHTD), voids in root fillings and cleaning of the pulp chamber were analysed. Data were analysed statistically using Shapiro-Wilk and Student's t-tests with a significance level of 5%.The percentage of untouched canal area did not differ significantly between UEC and TEC groups (P 0.05). However, UECs were associated with a greater percentage of AHTD after canal preparation (P 0.05). No differences were observed in terms of voids in root fillings between the groups (P 0.05). Nonetheless, UEC had a greater percentage of root filling remnants in the pulp chamber after cleaning procedures (P 0.05). The time required to perform root canal treatment was significantly longer in the UEC group (P 0.05). There was no difference regarding the mean load at fracture between the groups (P 0.05). Unrestorable fractures were observed in all specimens of both groups.There was no true benefit associated with ultraconservative endodontic cavities. UEC resulted in more AHTD remaining inside the root canals. UEC did not influence the quality of root fillings; however, UEC made the cleaning procedure of the pulp chamber more difficult, thus increasing the total time required to perform root canal treatment. Moreover, UEC were not associated with an increase in fracture resistance of root filled 2-rooted maxillary premolars.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of the XP-endo Shaper instrument (FKG Dentaire, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland) during the removal of root fillings from oval-shaped canals. M-Wire Reciproc and Reciproc Blue systems (VDW, Munich, Germany) were used as reference instruments for comparison, and micro-computed technology was used as an analytical tool.Thirty mandibular incisors with oval-shaped canals were matched based on similar anatomic features of the canal (eg, volume, aspect ratio, and 3-dimensional configuration) after scanning procedures. The canals were prepared with M-Wire Reciproc R25 instruments and filled with gutta-percha and AH Plus sealer (Dentsply DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany) using the continuous wave of condensation technique. Then, the sample was allocated into 3 experimental groups (n = 10) according to the retreatment protocol used: M-Wire Reciproc, Reciproc Blue, and XP-endo Shaper. M-Wire Reciproc R25, Reciproc Blue R25, and XP-endo Shaper instruments were used to remove the root fillings. Apical enlargement was performed with M-Wire Reciproc R40, Reciproc Blue R40, and BioRace BR5 (FKG Dentaire) instruments. Each sample was scanned after each endodontic procedure. The volume of remaining root filling material was quantified before and after apical enlargement. The percentage volumes of root filling reduction in relation to the instrumented canals at both time points (before and after apical enlargement) were calculated and considered for statistical analysis. Data were analyzed statistically with a significance level of 5%.Reciproc Blue presented significantly lower removal of filling material compared with the XP-endo Shaper (Tukey test, P.05). No difference was detected either between M-Wire Reciproc and Reciproc Blue (Tukey test, P.05) or M-Wire Reciproc and XP-endo Shaper (Tukey, P.05). The increase of apical enlargement significantly improved the removal of root fillings from the root canals (P.05); this effect was similar for all systems (time point × file system, P.05).The XP-endo Shaper instrument showed a higher percentage of root filling removal, but no differences were observed comparing M-Wire Reciproc with the XP-endo Shaper or Reciproc Blue. The increase of apical enlargement improved the removal of root fillings in all groups. None of them was able to render root canals completely free from root fillings.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of glycolic acid (GA) on the microhardness, roughness, dentin mineral content distribution; smear layer removal and cytotoxicity. One hundred human teeth were randomly divided into six groups: distilled water (control group), 17% EDTA, 10% citric acid (CA), 5% GA, 10% GA, and, 17% GA. Microhardness and roughness were measured in the canal lumen. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images (2000×) for smear layer removal evaluation; energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) for chemical analysis. Cell viability assay was made on fibroblast cells. The lowest microhardness and higher roughness were observed for 17% GA. GA showed the ability to remove the smear layer to a similar level as EDTA and CA, with no statistical difference between the concentrations used. GA and CA were cytotoxic in a dose-dependent manner. GA showed potential as an endodontic agent for final irrigation in root canal terapies.

Objetivo: o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a fadiga cíclica e torcional dos instrumentos WA1 e WaveOne Gold. Métodos: vinte instrumentos do sistema WA1 (25/0,07v) e vinte instrumentos do sistema WaveOne Gold (25/0,07v) foram utilizados. A resistência à fadiga cíclica foi testada, medindo o tempo até a fratura em um canal artificial curvo de aço inoxidável com ângulo de 80° e raio de curvatura de 3 mm (n = 10). O torque máximo e ângulo de rotação no momento da falha dos instrumentos (n = 10) foram medidos de acordo com a norma ISO 3630-1. A superfície de fratura de todos os fragmentos foi examinada com um microscópio eletrônico de varredura. Os resultados foram analisados estatisticamente usando o teste t de Student com um nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: não foram observadas diferenças na vida em fadiga cíclica dos instrumentos testados (p > 0,05). A força máxima de torção dos instrumentos WA1 foi menor do que os instrumentos WaveOne Gold (p < 0,05); entretanto, não foram observadas diferenças no ângulo máximo de rotação de ambos os sistemas (p > 0,05). A fotomicrografia eletrônica de varredura da superfície da fratura revelou características similares e típicas de fadiga cíclica e de falha por torção para os dois tipos de instrumentos. Conclusão: dentro dos resultados do presente estudo, pode-se concluir que os instrumentos WaveOne Gold e WA1 tiveram comportamento similar com relação à fadiga cíclica. No entanto, o instrumento WaveOne Gold apresentou maior deflexão angular à fratura por torção, em comparação aos instrumentos WA1.

Introduction The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the efficacy of vitality tests (pulse oximetry and flowmetry) in the pulpal diagnosis of traumatized teeth in comparison with sensibility tests. Methods This review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42018097361) and was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. An electronic systematic search of the literature was performed in the PubMed (Medline), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Lilacs, and Gray Literature databases and the reference lists of articles published until May 2018. The data of the included articles were extracted, and the methodological quality was judged using the QUADAS-2 quality assessment tool following the Cochrane recommendations. Results The initial search retrieved 173 potential articles. After the duplicates were removed, 77 articles remained; the titles and abstracts of these 77 articles were read, resulting in the selection of 19 articles for reading the full text. Five articles were selected for data extraction and qualitative analysis. The vitality tests evaluated in the studies were pulse oximetry, laser Doppler flowmetry, and ultrasound Doppler flowmetry compared with cold testing, electrical testing, or both. In all articles, the results were favorable for vitality tests; however, a high risk of bias was found in at least 1 item of the quality evaluation of the included studies. Conclusions Because of the high risk of bias and deficiency in the research design, there is still a need for further studies in relation to pulse oximetry, laser Doppler flowmetry, and ultrasound Doppler flowmetry, which consistently prove the diagnostic accuracy and superiority when compared with sensibility tests on traumatized teeth.

Aim To evaluate the performance of XP-endo Finisher R instruments when removing root filling remnants from oval-shaped canals using microcomputed tomographic (micro-CT) imaging as the analytical tool. Passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) was used as a reference technique for comparison. Methodology Twenty mandibular incisors with oval-shaped canals were matched based on similar anatomic features of the canal (volume, aspect ratio and 3D configuration) after scanning procedures. The canals were prepared with Reciproc R25 instruments, filled with gutta-percha and AH Plus sealer using the single-cone technique and retreated up to a Reciproc R40 instrument. After retreatment procedures, the specimens were rescanned, and the homogeneity between the specimens, the oval-shaped anatomy and the remaining filling material were confirmed. The pair-matched samples were assigned to two experimental groups (n = 10), according to the supplementary approach used: XP-endo Finisher R or PUI. Each sample was scanned after each endodontic procedure. The volume of remaining root filling material was quantified before and after the use of each supplementary approach. This analysis was performed considering the total canal (Student t-test) and also by thirds (anova procedure followed by a Bonferroni correction). Data were analysed statistically with a significance level of 5%. Results The volume of root filling material at baseline was similar between the groups (t-test, P = 0.787). XP-endo Finisher R removed significantly more root filling material compared to PUI (t-test, P = 0.015), as it removed a mean of ≅32% material compared to 12% for the PUI. There was no difference in the amount of root filling material removed in the root canal thirds after using both supplementary approaches (one-way anova, P = 0.07 for XP-endo Finisher R and P = 0.886 for PUI). Conclusions Both supplementary approaches significantly reduced the volume of remaining root filling material from oval-shaped canals. The XP-endo Finisher R instrument removed significantly more root filling material than PUI. None of the supplementary approaches was able to render oval-shaped canals completely free from remaining root filling material.

Introduction This study assessed the frequency in which Reciproc Blue R25 instruments (VDW, Munich, Germany) reached the full working length (WL) of mandibular molar canals without a glide path. The influence of the type of electric motor (ie, conventional corded or cordless) on the instrument's performance was also assessed. Methods One hundred mandibular molars with slight to moderate root canals were selected and randomly assigned into 1 of 2 experimental groups according to the type of electric motor used: conventional corded (VDW Silver, VDW) or cordless motors (VDW.CONNECT Drive, VDW). Therefore, 50 molars and 154 root canals were selected for each motor. Reciproc Blue R25 instruments were used until reaching two thirds of the estimated WL. Then, a size 10 K-file was passively inserted to determine the full WL. No active instrumentation movement was performed with a size 10 K-file. Independently, whether a size 10 K-file reached the apex or not, Reciproc Blue R25 instruments were used to complete canal preparation. When the Reciproc Blue R25 instrument was able to reach the full WL, the case was classified as “reaching the full working length” (RFWL). If the instrument was not able to reach the full WL, the case was classified as “not reaching the full working length” (NRFWL). The chi-square test of goodness of fit was used to verify whether the observed frequencies of RFWL and NRFWL adhered to the expected ones. A 5% cutoff level of significance was considered for statistical assumptions. Results Reciproc Blue R25 instruments were able to reach the full WL in 304 root canals (98.70%). The chi-square test revealed the observed frequencies of RFWL and NRFWL to be significantly different from the expected frequencies (χ2 = 292,208, P = .000). The frequency of RFWL and NRFWL was exactly the same for both types of electric motors. No instrument fractured, and a single file deformed. In 50 of 308 root canals, a size 10 K-file was unable to passively reach the full WL. From these 50 canals, Reciproc Blue R25 instruments were able to reach the full WL in 47 of them. Conclusions Reciproc Blue R25 instruments were able to reach the full WL in a high frequency of cases. The type of electric motor used did not interfere in the frequency of RFWL cases. No instrument fractured, and a single file deformed.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether amplifying the volume and/or time of contact of NaOCl affects the fracture strength of endodontically treated bovine teeth. Four bovine incisors from 10 animals were allocated into 4 groups using a split-mouth design. Root canals were instrumented using a sequence of 4 manual stainless steel files and irrigated with a 5.25% alkalized NaOCl solution. The total volume and time of irrigation, per sample, varied among the groups as following: standard volume and time of contact - 15 mL/11.5 min; volume raise - 30 mL/11.5 min; time of contact raise - 15 mL/19 min; and volume and time of contact raise - 30 mL/19 min. Samples were subjected to a fracture resistance assay. At p=0.05, two-way ANOVA statistically scrutinized the results. Effect size of NaOCl time of contact and volume were also calculated (η2). The variation in time (p=0.000), volume of irrigation (p=0.000) and the combination of both (p=0.038) negatively influenced the fracture resistance. Standard volume and time of irrigation showed the highest fracture strength while isolated increase in volume or time reduced in 25% and 37%, respectively, the fracture resistance; the simultaneous increase in volume and time of irrigation promoted a reduction of 47%. Effect size of NaOCl time of contact was superior (0.746) than the volume (0.564). Raising the volume and/or time of a 5.25% alkalized NaOCl solution reduces the fracture resistance of endodontically treated bovine teeth. Resumo O objetivo desse estudo foi o de avaliar se o aumento de volume e/ou tempo de contato do NaOCl afeta a resistência à fratura de dentes bovinos tratados endodonticamente. Quatro incisivos bovinos de 10 animais foram alocados em 4 grupos usando um desenho experimental de boca dividida. Os canais radiculares foram instrumentados usando uma sequência de 4 limas manuais de aço inoxidável e irrigados com uma solução de NaOCl alcalinizada a 5,25%. O volume total e o tempo de irrigação, por amostra, variaram entre os grupos da seguinte forma: volume e tempo de contato padrão (grupo controle) - 15 mL/11,5 min; aumento de volume - 30 mL/11,5 min; aumento no tempo de contato - 15 mL/19 min; e aumento no volume e no tempo de contato - 30 mL/19 min. As amostras foram submetidas a um ensaio de resistência à fratura. Com p=0.05, o teste two-way ANOVA analisou estatisticamente os resultados. O tamanho do efeito do tempo de contato e volume de NaOCl também foi calculado (h2). A variação no tempo (p=0,000), no volume de irrigação (p=0,000) e a interação entre ambos (p=0.038) influenciaram negativamente a resistência à fratura. O volume e o tempo padrão de irrigação apresentaram a maior resistência à fratura, enquanto o aumento isolado no volume ou no tempo de contato reduziram 25% e 37%, respectivamente, a resistência à fratura; o aumento simultâneo do volume e tempo de irrigação promoveu uma redução de 47%. O tamanho do efeito do tempo de contato com o NaOCl foi superior (0,746) ao volume (0,564). Aumentando o volume e/ou o tempo de uma solução de NaOCl alcalinizada a 5,25% reduz a resistência à fratura de dentes bovinos tratados endodonticamente.

AIM To compare the bond strength of an epoxy resin-based sealer and two calcium silicate-based sealers (CSS) to gutta-percha discs using a new method. METHODOLOGY Round discs of gutta-percha (n = 60), measuring 10 mm in diameter and 2 mm in thickness, were placed on a glass plate and a drop of each sealer (AH Plus, EndoSequence BC Sealer and EndoSeal MTA) was placed on their surface. Another identical disc was placed onto the first one and a standardized weight (0.0981 N) applied over them using a specially developed apparatus. Ten samples prepared for each sealer were submitted to a microshear bond strength test accomplished by a specially designed set-up coupled to a universal testing machine. The Kruskal-Wallis test followed by a post hoc procedure was used to compare groups considering the preliminary analysis of the raw data had indicated the nonadherence to a Gaussian distribution (Shapiro-Wilk, p

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-28T19:43:27Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-10-01 Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) Introduction: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of antibacterial activity of medications used in regenerative endodontic treatment. Methods: Sixty-seven dentin cylinders of single-rooted teeth were contaminated with a culture of Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212; American Type Culture Collection, Manassas, VA) for 5 days. Samples were divided into 1 control group and the following experimental groups according to the medication applied: traditional triple antibiotic paste (TAP), clindamycin-modified TAP (mTAP), triple antibiotic medication with macrogol (3Mix-MP), clindamycin-modified 3Mix-MP (m3Mix-MP), calcium hydroxide (CH), and ethanol extract of propolis (EEP). After 14 days, the medications were removed, and the samples were submitted to confocal laser scanning microscopic analysis to quantify the percentage of viable bacteria. The distribution of data was confirmed by the Shapiro-Wilk test. The Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests were used for intergroup comparisons, and the Wilcoxon test was used for comparison between superficial and deep antibacterial efficacy for the same medication. The level of significance was set at P .05). All medications showed effective antibacterial action compared with the control group (P

This study assessed the pulp tissue dissolution from isthmus of a two-rooted maxillary premolar using different final irrigation protocols. After root canal preparation, the surface of the tooth was reduced to an extent that the isthmus could be observed, and 1 mg of pulp tissue was introduced into the isthmus which was covered with a glass slide. Following six groups were tested: syringe and needle; subsonic activation; sonic activation; ultrasonic activation; heating followed by sonic activation; and heating followed by ultrasonic activation. Before and after each experiment a photograph of the isthmus was taken at 30× to register the area of the pulp tissue. Statistical analysis was performed with Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests (P < 0.05). Syringe and needle group showed the lower value of pulp tissue dissolution followed by subsonic irrigation procedures. Pulp tissue dissolution was significantly higher when heating was followed by sonic or ultrasonic activation.

Abstrac The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cyclic fatigue, torsional resistance and surface roughness of Reciproc R25 instruments in four different situations, namely as new instruments and as instruments tested after clinical preparation of one, two or three maxillary molars with four root canals. The total time required to perform each root canal preparation was recorded. Cyclic fatigue resistance was determined by the time to fracture using a customized testing device (n = 10 per group). The torsional test evaluated the torque and angle of rotation to failure according to ISO 3630-1 (n = 10 per group). The roughness of the working parts of new and used instruments was evaluated with a profilometer (n = 5 per group). Statistical analysis was performed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test. The level of significance was set at 5%. No fractures or deformations were observed after clinical use. Higher preparation time was needed during the third use of the instruments for all root canals (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences among the groups in regard to either cyclic fatigue or torsional resistance (p > 0.05). Regarding the roughness measurements, groove depth was higher on new and one- versus two- or three-maxillary-molar-prepared instruments (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that the clinical use of Reciproc instruments increased preparation time and decreased surface roughness. However, clinical use did not affect the cyclic fatigue or torsional resistance of the Reciproc instruments.

Objectives: To assess the characteristics, performance, and safety of ProTaper Gold SX (PTG SX) replica-like instruments. Methods: A multimethod research involving the assessment of geometric design (macro and through scanning electron microscope), Ti/Ni proportions (energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy), phase transformation temperatures (differential scanning calorimetry), torsional resistance, and flexibility was conducted to compare two SX replica-like instruments (Premium Taper Gold and Go-Taper Flex) with the original PTG SX. Results were compared using one-way ANOVA with post hoc Tukey or Kruskal-Wallis tests according to gaussian or non-gaussian distribution (Shapiro-Wilk test). The significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The three SX instruments have nine cutting blades with helix angles of approximately 21º, symmetrical blade geometry without radial lands, a convex triangular cross-section design, and near equiatomic Ti/Ni atomic proportions. Design differences were observed at the tip geometry and surface finishing, which was smoother in the Premium Taper Gold and irregular in the Go-Taper Flex. Distinct R-phase start (Rs) and finish (Rf) phase transformation temperatures were noted between PTG (Rs ~48ºC and Rf ~30ºC), Go-Taper Flex (Rs ~43ºC and Rf ~25ºC), and Premium Taper Gold (Rs ~30ºC and Rf ~15ºC). In the mechanical tests, Go-Taper Flex presented lower maximum torque (mean 0.5 N.cm) and higher bending resistance (mean 582.2 gf) (less flexibility) than PTG (means 0.8 N.cm and 447.1 gf) (P0.05). Conclusions: Overall, the tested replica-like systems showed different features compared to the original PTG SX instrument.

Objectives To evaluate the fracture incidence of Reciproc R25 instruments (VDW) used during non-surgical root canal retreatments performed by students in a postgraduate endodontic program. Materials and Methods From the analysis of clinical record cards and periapical radiographs of root canal retreatments performed by postgraduate students using the Reciproc R25, a total of 1,016 teeth (2,544 root canals) were selected. The instruments were discarded after a single use. The general incidence of instrument fractures and its frequency was analyzed considering the group of teeth and the root thirds where the fractures occurred. Statistical analysis was performed using the χ2 test (p < 0.01). Results Seven instruments were separated during the procedures. The percentage of fracture in relation to the number of instrumented canals was 0.27% and 0.68% in relation to the number of instrumented teeth. Four fractures occurred in maxillary molars, 1 in a mandibular molar, 1 in a mandibular premolar and 1 in a maxillary incisor. A greater number of fractures was observed in molars when compared with the number of fractures observed in the other dental groups (p < 0.01). Considering all of the instrument fractures, 71.43% were located in the apical third and 28.57% in the middle third (p < 0.01). One instrument fragment was removed, one bypassed, while in 5 cases, the instrument fragment remained inside the root canal. Conclusions The use of Reciproc R25 instruments in root canal retreatments carried out by postgraduate students was associated with a low incidence of fractures.

Objectives The aim of this study was to evaluate the shaping ability of the TruShape and Reciproc Blue systems and the apical extrusion of debris after root canal instrumentation. The ProTaper Universal system was used as a reference for comparison. Materials and Methods Thirty-three mandibular premolars with a single canal were scanned using micro-computed tomography and were matched into 3 groups (n = 11) according to the instrumentation system: TruShape, Reciproc Blue and ProTaper Universal. The teeth were accessed and mounted in an apparatus with agarose gel, which simulated apical resistance provided by the periapical tissue and enabled the collection of apically extruded debris. During root canal preparation, 2.5% sodium hypochlorite was used as an irrigant. The samples were scanned again after instrumentation. The percentage of unprepared area, removed dentin, and volume of apically extruded debris were analyzed. The data were analyzed using 1-way analysis of variance and the Tukey test for multiple comparisons at a 5% significance level. Results No significant differences in the percentage of unprepared area were observed among the systems (p > 0.05). ProTaper Universal presented a higher percentage of dentin removal than the TruShape and Reciproc Blue systems (p < 0.05). The systems produced similar volumes of apically extruded debris (p > 0.05). Conclusions All systems caused apically extruded debris, without any significant differences among them. TruShape, Reciproc Blue, and ProTaper Universal presented similar percentages of unprepared area after root canal instrumentation; however, ProTaper Universal was associated with higher dentin removal than the other systems.

Objectives: This study performed a systematic review of anatomy prevalence studies using cone-beam computed tomography to comprehend the root and root canal configuration types in Brazilian sub-populations. Methods: This systematic review followed PRISMA’s statements. Four electronic databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Lilacs, and Cochrane Collaboration) were accessed using MeSH terms and free-text keywords. The studies were selected according to predefined criteria. References of the collected studies, three peer-reviewed endodontic journals, and two peer-reviewed evidence-based dentistry journals were hand searched. The authors were contacted for additional information, if necessary. Eligible studies were submitted to a scientific merit assessment by two evaluators independently, who reached a final consensus for each study score using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool for prevalence studies. Results: A total of 2266 studies were identified. After analysis, 20 full-text articles were accessed for eligibility and 17 were included for qualitative synthesis. A high prevalence of mandibular incisors presenting two root canals was noted (~35.0% – 40.0). Moreover, a high proportion of two-rooted (17.0% – 28.4%) and two root canals (50.1% – 75.0%) morphologies were identified in maxillary second premolars. A wide range and a high percentage of a second mesiobuccal canal were detected for both maxillary first (37.1% – 88.5%) and second molars (21.8% – 83.4%). A second root canal prevalence ranging from 12.4% to 23.4% was observed in the distal root of mandibular first molars. Conclusions: In conclusion, different Brazilian sub-populations may present divergent characteristics regarding the root and root canal configurations. Clinicians should be aware of these variations for proper planning of endodontic treatment.

Objectives This study aimed to analyze the main features of the 25 most-cited articles in minimally invasive access cavities. Materials and Methods An electronic search was conducted on the Clarivate Analytics' Web of Science ‘All Databases’ to identify the most-cited articles related to this topic. Citation counts were cross-matched with data from Elsevier's Scopus and Google Scholar. Information about authors, contributing institutions and countries, year and journal of publication, study design and topic, access cavity, and keywords were analyzed. Results The top 25 most-cited articles received a total of 572 (Web of Science), 1,160 (Google Scholar) and 631 (Scopus) citations. It was observed a positive significant association between the number of citations and age of publication (r = 0.6907, p < 0.0001); however, there was no significant association regarding citation density and age of publication (r = −0.2631, p = 0.2038). The Journal of Endodontics made the highest contribution (n = 15, 60%). The United States had the largest number of publications (n = 7) followed by Brazil (n = 4), with the most contributions from the University of Tennessee and Grande Rio University (n = 3), respectively. The highest number of most-cited articles were ex vivo studies (n = 16), and ‘fracture resistance’ was the major topic studied (n = 10). Conclusions This study revealed a growing interest for researchers in the field of minimally invasive access cavities. Future trends are focused on the expansion of collaborative networks and the conduction of laboratory studies on under-investigated parameters.

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of large apical preparations with Reciproc (REC), Hyflex CM (HCM) and Twisted File Adaptive (TFA) systems using micro-computed tomography (MCT). Ninety mesiobuccal (MB) and distobuccal (DB) root canals of maxillary molars (n = 45) were scanned using MCT before and after the shaping procedures. The root canals (n = 15) were prepared until REC 40.06, HCM 40.04 and TFA 35.04. The root canal transportation (RCT), centring ability (CA), change in volume of the root canal and at different levels (VC), remaining dentine thickness (RDT), removal of dentine wall (RDW) and working time (WT) were evaluated. Data were analysed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests, and the one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests with a level of significance set at 5%. No significant difference among the instruments was found regarding the RCT, CA, RDT, RDW and WT (P > 0.05), in larger apical preparations in curved MB and straight DB canals of maxillary molars.

To evaluate the influence of pH variation on the solubility and water sorption of a premixed calcium silicate-based root canal sealer (EndoSequence BC Sealer) compared to the gold standard based on epoxy resin (AH Plus Jet) after immersion in distilled water and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS).Solubility and water sorption were evaluated after immersion in distilled water or PBS at several pHs (5, 7 and 12) and the values were calculated as percentages of the original mass after 24 h, 7 and 30 days of immersion. The crystalline structures present in the sealers and surface precipitates were assessed by X-ray diffraction. The Shapiro-Wilk's test revealed that data were normally distributed; thus, statistical analysis was performed using one-way anova and Tukey's tests or independent t-test, assuming a 5% α-error.EndoSequence BC Sealer was associated with significantly greater water sorption and solubility compared to AH Plus Jet in all tested conditions (P 0.05). The acid environment increased the 24 h solubility of EndoSequence BC Sealer immersed in PBS (P 0.05) and did not induce significative changes in the water sorption (P 0.05). Alkaline pH reduced the solubility of EndoSequence BC Sealer and increased that of AH Plus Jet at all experimental times and soaking media (P 0.05). Alkaline environment also significantly increased the water sorption of AH Plus Jet immersed in PBS (P 0.05). Immersion in PBS significantly reduced the solubility of EndoSequence BC Sealer and significantly increased that of AH Plus Jet (P 0.05). Precipitates on the surface of EndoSequence BC Sealer corresponding to hydroxyapatite and calcium carbonate were detected after immersion in PBS at pH 5 and 7 for 30 days.EndoSequence BC Sealer had significantly greater solubility and water sorption than AH Plus Jet. Although the alkaline pH and soaking media directly influenced the solubility and water sorption of the sealers, the solubility of AH Plus Jet remained within the limits recommended by ISO 6876, whilst the solubility of the EndoSequence BC Sealer did not comply with ISO recommendations in all the conditions tested.

AIM To evaluate the influence of ultraconservative access cavities (UltraAC) on canal shaping and filling ability and load capacity of mandibular molars after root canal preparation with XP-endo Shaper (XP) or Reciproc (RC), under simulated clinical conditions. Traditional access cavities (TradAC) were used for comparison. METHODOLOGY Forty extracted mandibular molars were scanned by micro-computed tomographic and, based on similar anatomical features, were divided into four groups (n = 10), according to the type of access cavity and canal instrumentation protocol: TradAC/RC, TradAC/XP, UltraAC/RC and UltraAC/XP. All root canal procedures were performed with the teeth placed in a dental mannequin. Teeth were scanned after root canal instrumentation and filling. Unprepared canal area, dentine removed, accumulated hard tissue debris (AHTD), canal transportation, presence of voids and filling material remnants within the pulp chamber were analysed. After restorative procedures, the teeth were subjected to thermomechanical cycling and to a load capacity test. Statistical analyses were performed using two-way anova test, considering the randomized blocks design (P

The presence of multiple root canals is an important morphologic aspect of mandibular premolars. This study aimed to perform a worldwide analysis on the prevalence of a lingual canal in mandibular premolars and to evaluate its influence on patients' demographics in 23 countries using cone-beam computed tomographic images.Observers from 23 countries were instructed to evaluate cone-beam computed tomographic images of 300 first and 300 second premolars (13,800 teeth) regarding the presence of a lingual canal, canal configuration, and data related to patients' ethnicity, age, and sex following a standardized screening methodology. Intra- and interrater evaluations were performed using the Cohen kappa test and intraclass correlation coefficient. Proportion and odds ratio forest plots were calculated in order to compare groups. Statistical significance was set at 5%.Both kappa and intraclass correlation coefficient values were above 0.60, and the percentage of agreement was 94.9% (first premolar) and 97.8% (second premolar). A significant statistical difference was observed between the worldwide proportion of a lingual canal in mandibular first (23.8%; range, 12.0%-32.7%) and second (5.3%; range, 1.0%-15.3%) premolars (P.05). Asians and patients over 60 years old were associated with the lowest proportions of a lingual canal (P.05), whereas Africans and younger groups were associated with the highest proportions (P.05). The prevalence of a lingual canal in males (27.9%) was higher than females (20.0%) for the first premolar only (P.05). Males were associated with 1.533 and 1.597 higher odds of presenting a lingual root canal in the first and second premolars, respectively.The worldwide proportion of a lingual root canal was 23.6% and 5.3% for the first and second premolars, respectively. Ethnicity, geographic region, age, and sex had an influence on the outcomes.

Despite the passionate way that some defend that conventional canal mechanical instrumentation decreases the resistance of teeth to fracture, the current literature is composed by a limited amount of laboratory studies, which means low-quality evidence to shape and guide the clinical decision-making process. Therefore, the idea of providing optimum dimensions for root canal mechanical preparation is one current ongoing concern in endodontic practice and science. Considering the as yet unclear situation of the minimal invasive approaches and rationales proposed to render an endodontically treated tooth predictably functional, the present text focuses on the optimal size/taper relationship necessary to avoid unnecessary overflared canals and, at the same time, to allow the turbulence and solution exchange indispensable for the minimal cleaning and disinfection conditions to assure healing. The big picture is to address and discuss the close-to-optimum operative conditions to maximize tooth strength and longevity. Moreover, advances and developments in nickel-titanium (NiTi) technology have allowed endodontics to move towards the minimally invasive dentistry paradigm.

Objective The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the influence of population demographic characteristics on the prevalence of a second canal in mandibular anterior teeth. Design Four electronic databases and five peer-reviewed journals were searched from May 2018 to September 2019 for prevalence studies using cone-beam computed tomographic imaging on second canal morphology in mandibular anterior teeth. The identified studies were subjected to a hand search of bibliographic references followed by contact with the authors. Full text analysis and critical appraisal (JBI) was undertaken on 40 papers by 2 evaluators. Sixteen studies were included into a meta-analysis. Forest plots with proportion and odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval were calculated. Meta-regression was performed in order to identify possible sources of heterogeneity. Results The 16 selected studies presented an average JBI score of 77.7% and revealed data from 40,784 mandibular anterior teeth (14,278 central incisors, 14,433 lateral incisors, and 12,073 canines). The overall prevalence of a second canal for central incisors, lateral incisors and canines was 20.4% (15.0%-25.7% CI 95%), 25.3% (20.0%-30.7% CI 95%) and 5.9% (4.1%-7.7% CI 95%), respectively. Males showed significantly higher odds of having a second canal for both incisors (p < 0.05). East Asia studies presented lower proportions of a second canal in mandibular anterior teeth (p < 0.05). Conclusions The overall prevalence of a second canal in the mandibular central and lateral incisors and canines was 20.4%, 25.3% and 5.9%, respectively. Meta-analysis calculation revealed gender and patient geographic origin as possible confounding factors of the proportion outcomes.

Introduction This study assessed the number of mesial and distal canals of mandibular molars in which the R-Pilot pathfinding reciprocating instrument reached the working length (WL) during macro glide path procedure. Fracture and deformation rates were also evaluated. Methods One hundred fifty-six root canals of 52 teeth were scouted to the length of the apical foramen. Then the R-Pilot instrument was positioned at the canal orifice and activated. The instrument was moved by using a pecking motion and light apical pressure. This procedure was repeated in an attempt to reach the WL. The type of fracture and/or instrument deformation was assessed by scanning electron microscopy, whereas the roots with fractured instruments were scanned through micro-computed tomography. The percentage frequency distribution of fractures, deformations, and root canals in which the R-Pilot reached the WL were recorded and statistically compared by using the Pearson’s χ2 test with α = 5%. Results R-Pilot instruments reached the WL in 139 root canals (89.10%), and χ2 test showed a significant difference between the observed frequencies and the expected frequencies (χ2 = 95.41, P = .000). The observed frequencies of fractures (2.56%) and deformations (1.92%) were also significantly lower than the expected (fracture: χ2 = 140.41, P = .000; deformation: χ2 = 144.23, P = .000). Fractures occurred mostly at the apical and curved parts of the root canals. Conclusions R-Pilot reached the WL in 89.10% of the root canals of mandibular molars with fracture and deformation rates of 2.56% and 1.92%, respectively.

Aim\ud \ud To validate a new method for the evaluation of pulp tissue debridement in the root canals of extracted teeth using an impregnation protocol involving potassium triiodide, a radiocontrast solution known as Lugol’s, combined with micro‐computed tomographic (micro‐CT) imaging.\ud Methodology\ud \ud The impact of NaOCl on the radiopacity of Lugol’s solution was assessed using a two‐fold dilution series of Lugol in distilled water and 5.25% NaOCl, which were then pipetted into transparent dishes and radiographed. To verify the influence of Lugol on the proteolytic effect of NaOCl, a dissolution test was performed using fresh bovine meat. Ten slices did not undergo any tissue processing, whilst twenty slices were fixed in formaldehyde for 24 h. After that, 10 of them were immersed in Lugol for another 24 h. Then, all specimens were placed in NaOCl and the time required for a complete tissue dissolution was recorded. For the last experiments (histological validation and micro‐CT assessment), 8 extracted mandibular premolars with formerly vital pulps were immersed in buffered formalin, scanned in a micro‐CT device, accessed, immersed in Lugol for 7 days and scanned again. Then, the root canals of 5 teeth were prepared and scanned, and the volume of remaining pulp tissue identified and quantified, whilst 3 teeth were histologically processed. The same specimens were subjected to histological assessment, and the images of the histologic sections were registered with the corresponding micro‐CT images to verify whether the pulp tissue in the histological sections matched its counterpart in the Lugol‐impregnated tissues identified in the micro‐CT slices.\ud Results\ud \ud There was no discernible effect on radiopacity when NaOCl was mixed with Lugol’s solution. Tissue processing did not affect the time required for the complete dissolution of fresh bovine meat. Histological evaluation revealed a correlation between micro‐CT and histological images confirming the identification of Lugol‐impregnated pulp tissue in micro‐CT images.\ud Conclusions\ud \ud The radiocontrast Lugol’s solution was unaffected by NaOCl and did not interfere with its soft tissue dissolution capability. The impregnation protocol using Lugol’s solution allowed the visualization of pulp tissue on the micro‐CT images and the identification of pulp remnants after chemical–mechanical canal procedures.

To evaluate the use of a reduced taper endodontic instrument system (Bassi Logic™ .03 taper) and expandable heat-treated system (XP-endo Shaper) on the ability to shape canals in mandibular molars, by means of microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) analysis. The Reciproc system was used as the reference for comparison.Twenty-four mandibular molars were scanned in a micro-CT, matched based on similar anatomical features and sorted into three groups (n = 8 per group), according to root canal preparation system: Bassi Logic™ .03, XP-endo Shaper and Reciproc. The teeth were mounted onto a mannequin and the pulp chambers were accessed with traditional access cavities. In Bassi Logic™ .03 and Reciproc groups, mesial canals were prepared with size 25, .03 taper or R25 (size 25, .08v taper) instruments and the distal root canal with size 25, .03 taper and size 40, .03 taper or R25 and R40 (size 40, .06v taper), respectively. In XP-endo Shaper groups, all root canals were prepared with XP-endo Shaper (size 30, .04v taper). After root canal preparation, the teeth were rescanned. The percentage of untouched canal areas and the percentage of removed dentine were evaluated separately for mesial and distal root canals. The data were analysed using one-way anova and Tukey tests (P 0.05).The Bassi Logic™ .03 group was associated with a greater percentage of untouched canal areas when compared to XP-endo Shaper and Reciproc groups for mesial and distal root canals (P 0.05), but no differences were found between XP-endo Shaper and Reciproc groups (P 0.05). No significant difference was observed in the percentage of dentine removed amongst the groups for mesial and distal root canals (P 0.05).The use of a reduced taper system (Bassi Logic™ .03) during root canal preparation resulted in a greater percentage of untouched canal areas when compared to XP-endo Shaper and Reciproc instruments. No differences were observed amongst the systems regarding the percentage of dentine removed.

This study aimed to compare the ProTaper Universal (PTU; Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) system with 6 replicalike instruments regarding instrument design, mechanical performance, and alloy characteristics.New rotary instruments (size 20/.07v) of PTU and 6 replicalike systems (EdgeTaper [EdgeEndo, Johnson City, TN], U-File [Dentmark, Ludhiana, India], Go-Taper Universal [Access, Shenzhen, China], Super Files [Flydent, Shenzhen, China], Multitaper [Proclinic Expert, Besançon, France], and Pluri Taper [Bestdent, Shenzhen, China]) (n = 329) were selected and evaluated regarding their design, mechanical performance, and metallurgical characteristics. The results were compared using the nonparametric Mood median test and 1-way analysis of variance with the significance level set at 0.05.Replicalike instruments were similar to PTU regarding design, maximum torque to fracture (P.05), and ratio of nickel and titanium elements. Scanning electron microscopy revealed differences in the geometry of the tip and finishing surfaces. Time to fracture of Go-Taper Universal (50.0 seconds) was similar to PTU (44.0 seconds) (P.05), but the U-File (63.5 seconds), Edge Taper (87.5 seconds), and Super Files (130 seconds) showed significantly higher values (P.05). The highest maximum torque was observed in the Super Files instrument (P.05), but no statistical difference was noted among the other instruments (P.05). The angle of rotation before rupture of the Multitaper (574°) and Pluri Taper (481°) was higher than PTU (354°) (P.05). Differential scanning calorimetric analysis showed clear differences on the transformation temperatures among the tested instruments. The R-phase start and finish temperatures of PTU were 11.0°C and -18.0°C, respectively.Overall, replicalike instruments were similar to PTU regarding the torsional resistance, geometric design, and near equiatomic proportions of nickel and titanium elements. In 3 of the 4 mechanical tests, the EdgeTaper (torque, angle of rotation, and bending load) and Go-Taper Universal (time to fracture, torque, and angle of rotation) systems were similar to PTU.

To evaluate the bending, buckling and torsional resistance of ProGlider (PG) (Dentsply Sirona, Ballaigues, Switzerland), R-Pilot (RP) (VDW, Munich, Germany) and WaveOne Gold Glider (WOGG) (Dentsply Sirona).Ninety instruments were used: 30 PG (size 0.16, .02v taper), 30 RP (size 0.125, .04 taper) and 30 WOGG (size 0.15, .02v taper). The bending resistance test was performed on 10 randomly selected instruments of each system according to ISO 3630-1 specifications. For the buckling resistance test, a loading was applied in the axial direction of each instrument using a universal test machine, with a 20 N cell and 15 mm minWOGG had the lowest bending resistance, whilst RP had the highest bending resistance (P 0.05). RP also had the highest buckling resistance, and WOGG had the lowest (P 0.05). PG had intermediate results regarding bending and buckling resistance, with significant differences to RP and WOGG (P 0.05). RP had the highest torsional strength and the lowest angular deflection when compared to PG and WOGG (P 0.05). No differences in the torsional strength and angular deflection were observed between WOGG and PG (P 0.05).The glide path instruments had different behaviours in term of bending, buckling and torsional resistance.

To evaluate the influence of the location and design of endodontic access cavities on root canal shaping and filling ability, pulp chamber cleaning and fracture resistance of extracted human mandibular incisors.After pre-selection using periapical radiographs, forty extracted intact human mandibular incisors were scanned in a micro-computed tomographic device. The teeth were matched based on similar anatomical features of the canals and assigned to four experimental groups (n = 10) according to the endodontic access cavity and root canal preparation protocol: traditional/TRUShape (T/TRU); traditional/MTwo (T/MT); minimally invasive/TRUShape (MI/TRU); and minimally invasive/MTwo (MI/MT). The samples were scanned after root canal instrumentation and filling procedures. The parameters evaluated were as follows: volume and area of the root canal, noninstrumented canal areas, canal transportation and centring ratio, accumulated hard tissue debris, voids in root canal fillings and remnants of root canal filling materials in the pulp chamber. After root canal filling and cavity restoration procedures, the samples were submitted to a fracture resistance test. Data were statistically analysed using Shapiro-Wilk, one-way anova and Bonferroni tests with a significance level of 5% (α = 0.05).There was no difference regarding all parameters evaluated before and after root canal preparation (volume and area of the root canal, noninstrumented canal areas, canal transportation and centring ratio, and accumulated hard tissue debris) amongst the groups (P 0.05). MI/TRU and MI/MT groups were associated with significantly more voids in root canal fillings when compared to the T/TRU and T/MT groups (P 0.05). Percentage of root canal filling material remnants in the pulp chamber after cleaning procedures and mean fracture resistance values were not significantly different amongst the four experimental groups (P 0.05).The location and design of the endodontic access cavity did not impact on root canal preparation nor resistance to fracture of extracted mandibular incisors, regardless of the instrument used. Minimally invasive access cavities were associated with significantly more voids in root canal fillings.

AIM To evaluate the torsional properties of the NiTi glide path reciprocating instruments R-Pilot (VDW, Munich, Germany) and WaveOne Gold Glider (Dentsply Sirona, Ballaigues, Switzerland). METHODOLOGY Ten R-Pilot (size 12.5, .04 taper) and 10 WaveOne Gold Glider (size 15, .02v taper) instruments were used. The torque and angle of rotation at failure of new instruments (n = 10) were measured according to ISO 3630-1. Three millimetres of each instrument tip was clamped to a small load cell by a lever arm linked to the torsion axis. The fracture surface of all fragments was examined with a scanning electron microscope. Data were analysed using the Student t-test at a significance level of P

Objective: The objective of the present literature review tis o verify the success rates, as well as the predisposing factors, associated to success rates of dental autotransplant treatments in teeth with complete rhizogenesis. Methods: An electronic search was performed on PubMed database using MeSH terms and free terms. Initially, a total of 115 titles and abstracts. An additional study was identified as relevant after a search of reference lists. After eligibility criteria appliance, only 8 articles were selected. Results: In general, the included studies show high success rates, based on established parameters such as periodontal ligament maintenance, periapical healing and periodontal health. In addition, the selected studies pointed out that factors such as extraction and reimplantation protocols, the time of follow-up used in the study and the time in which the endodontic treatment of the transplanted element was performed, can affect the success rate of dental transplant therapy. Conclusion: According to the present literature review, it can be concluded that although there are still few studies of autotransplantation performed in patients with complete rhizogenesis, the technique has proven itself as a viable option with moderate success rate for replacement of lost dental elements. Objetivo: O objetivo da presente revisão da literatura foi verificar as taxas de sucesso, assim como seus fatores predisponentes, do autotransplante dentário em dentes com rizogênese completa. Métodos: Uma busca eletrônica foi executada no PubMed usando MeSH terms e termos livres específicos. Inicialmente, um total de 115 títulos e resumos foram identificados. Um estudo adicional foi identificado como relevante após uma busca das listas de referência. Após a aplicação dos critérios de elegibilidade, apenas 8 artigos foram selecionados. Resultados: De forma geral, os estudos incluídos demonstram elevadas taxas de sucesso, baseado nos parâmetros estabelecidos, como manutenção do ligamento periodontal, cicatrização periapical e saúde periodontal. Além disso, os estudos selecionados na presente revisão apontaram que fatores como os protocolos de extração e reimplante, o tempo de proservação utilizado no estudo e o tempo no qual foi realizado o tratamento endodôntico do elemento transplantado, podem afetar a taxa de sucesso do autotransplante dentário. Conclusão: De acordo com a presente revisão de literatura pode-se concluir que embora ainda existam poucos estudos de autotransplante realizados em pacientes com rizogênese completa, a técnica tem se mostrado uma opção viável e com moderada taxa de sucesso para a substituição de elementos dentários perdidos.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of three different endodontic filling materials on human osteoblast cell cultures. Material and Methods: The endodontic pastes Calen PMCC (SSWhite Dental Articles LTDA, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), Feapex (Formula and Action, São Paulo, Brazil) and CTZ (Lenzafarm, Belo Horizonte, Brazil) were eluted in cell culture medium during 24 hours in an oven at 37°C and 5% CO2. Four distinct dilutions of these media were performed at the concentrations 1:1, 1:2, 1:4 and 1:8. Cell cultures of Saos-2 Human Osteoblast-like were exposed to these dilutions for 24 hours. The negative control group was performed by exposing the cells to culture medium without contact with any endodontic paste. The cytotoxic potential of these media was evaluated using the MTT assay and the results were transformed into viable cell percentages in relation to the negative control group. Statistical analysis was submitted with a significance level of 5%, using univariate Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Tukey’s test. Results: Cell viability was significantly altered according to the material tested (p Objetivo: O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial citotóxico de três diferentes pastas endodônticas em cultura celular de osteoblastos humanos. Material e Métodos: As pastas endodônticas Calen PMCC (SSWhite Artigos Dentários LTDA, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil), Feapex (Fórmula e Ação, São Paulo, Brasil) e CTZ (Lenzafarm, Belo Horizonte, Brasil) foram preparadas e eluídas em meio de cultura celular durante 24 horas em estufa a 37°C e 5% de CO2. Foram realizadas quatro diluições distintas desses meios nas concentrações 1: 1, 1: 2, 1: 4 e 1: 8. Culturas de células de Osteoblastos Humanos da linhagem Saos-2 foram expostas a estas diluições durante 24 horas. O controle negativo foi realizado expondo as células ao meio de cultura sem contato com nenhuma pasta endodôntica. A citotoxicidade desses meios foi avaliada utilizando o ensaio MTT e os resultados foram transformados em porcentagens de células viáveis em relação ao grupo controle negativo. A análise estatística foi realizada com nível de significância de 5%, utilizando ANOVA seguido do teste de Tukey. Resultados: A viabilidade celular foi significativamente alterada de acordo com o material testado (p

To evaluate the influence of ultraconservative endodontic access cavities (UEC) and the use of instruments with various tapers (.03 or .05) and tip diameters (25 or 40) on the ability to shape canals in mandibular molars and their fracture resistance in comparison with traditional endodontic access cavities (TEC).Thirty-two intact extracted mandibular molars were scanned in a micro-computed tomography device, matched based on similar anatomical features and assigned to UEC or TEC groups and to subgroups according to mechanical canal preparation with Bassi Logic™ rotary NiTi instruments with .03 or .05 taper (n = 8 per group). The teeth were mounted onto a mannequin head, and the pulp chambers were accessed and the root canals subjected to instrumentation. In the first stage, size 25 endodontic instruments were used, with .03 or .05 tapers. The teeth were re-scanned. Subsequently, a second canal instrumentation was performed with the size 40 instruments with .03 or .05 tapers and scanned again. The root canals were filled and then the teeth restored before being subjected to fracture resistance tests. The data on untouched canal areas, canal transportation, centring ability, the percentage of removed dentine and maximum load at fracture were analysed. One-way anova and Tukey's tests were performed for inter-group analysis. The paired-samples t-test was performed on the results between size 25 and size 40 apical preparations for each individual specimen (P 0.05).No significant difference was observed for the percentage of untouched canal area when comparing UEC and TEC groups or between the .03 and .05 tapers with the same instrument tip size (P 0.05). There was a significantly lower percentage of untouched canal area after instrumentation with size 40 instruments when compared to size 25 (P 0.05). No significant difference in the percentage of dentine removed was observed between the access cavities or the different tapers (P 0.05). Size 40 apical preparations removed significantly more dentine than size 25 preparations (P 0.05). No significant differences were observed in canal transportation, centring ability and fracture resistance in any of the tested groups (P 0.05).Ultraconservative endodontic access cavities did not offer any advantages in comparison with traditional endodontic access cavities on the ability to shape canals, nor the fracture resistance of mandibular molars. No differences were observed in shaping ability and fracture resistance between .03 and .05 taper canal preparations. Apical preparation with larger instruments resulted in significantly less untouched canal area in all groups.

To assess the impact of conservative endodontic access cavities (CEC) and truss access cavities (TAC) during root canal treatment performed on mandibular molars in terms of: ability to shape and fill root canals, microbial reduction in canals, and cleaning of the pulp chamber. In addition, the fracture resistance of the teeth after coronal restoration was assessed. Traditional endodontic cavities (TEC) were used as a reference technique for comparison.Thirty extracted intact mandibular molars were scanned in a microcomputed tomography device (micro-CT), matched based on similar anatomical features and assigned to TEC, CEC or TAC groups (n = 10). The specimens were accessed accordingly, and root canals were contaminated with bacterial suspensions of Enterococcus faecalis (21 days). Subsequently, the first microbial sample was collected from root canals (S1). The canals were initially prepared with Reciproc Blue R25 instrument followed by a second instrumentation using Reciproc Blue R40. Eight mL of 0.5% NaOCl were used as an irrigant for each instrument. A final irrigation protocol was performed with 2 mL of 0.5% NaOCl, 2 mL of 17% EDTA and another 2 mL of 0.5% NaOCl. Microbial samples were collected from root canals after R25 (S2), R40 (S3) and final irrigation (S4). The teeth were rescanned after S4. Then, root canals were filled, rescanned, restored and the teeth subjected to fracture resistance tests. The statistical analysis was performed with type I negative binomial and beta 0-1 inflation regression models for microbiological analysis. Instrumentation, filling and resistance to fracture results were subjected to anova and Tukey tests (P 0.05).S4 revealed no significant variations in microbial reduction amongst the groups (P 0.05). TEC had a significantly lower percentage of unprepared surface area than CEC (P 0.05). No differences were found regarding the percentage of dentine removed, transportation, centring ability and filling voids amongst the groups (P 0.05). The TEC group had a significantly lower volume of remaining root filling material within the pulp chamber than CEC and TAC groups (P 0.05). There was no difference regarding fracture resistance amongst the groups (P 0.05).Conservative access cavities did not offer any advantage in comparison with the traditional endodontic cavities in any of the parameters considered. Furthermore, conservative methods were associated with larger percentages of unprepared canal surface area and larger volumes of remaining root filling material within the pulp chamber.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the cyclic fatigue resistance of 3 replicalike rotary instruments compared with their original brand systems using continuous rotation and optimum torque reverse (OTR) kinematics.New F1 rotary instruments (n = 20 per group) from ProTaper Universal (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) and ProTaper Gold (Dentsply Maillefer) original brand systems were compared with 3 replicalike instruments (U-File [Dentmark, Ludhiana, India], Super Files [Shenzhen Flydent Medical, Shenzhen, China], and Super Files Blue [Shenzhen Flydent Medical]) regarding cyclic fatigue resistance. In each group, the selected instruments were randomly distributed into 2 subgroups (n = 10) according to the kinematics. In the rotary group (ROT), the instruments were activated with a continuous clockwise rotation (300 rpm, 1.5 Ncm), whereas in the OTR group, asymmetric oscillatory motion was performed setting the OTR function at 300 rpm and adjusting the torque limit at the minimum level using the TriAuto ZX2 motor (J Morita, Kyoto, Japan). The time to fracture was recorded and statistically compared according to the kinematics (ROT × OTR) and the instrument type (replicalike × original brand) using the independent sample t test (α = 0.05). Additionally, the metal alloy characterization of each system was performed by differential scanning calorimetry and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.Statistical analysis revealed significantly higher time to fracture for all rotary systems tested in OTR motion compared with continuous rotation (P.05) with a mean percentage increase ranging from 52.1% (ProTaper Gold) to 156.7% (U-File). The replicalike instruments showed a significantly higher time to fracture compared with the respective original brand instruments in either ROT or OTR motion (P.05). Replicas presented austenitic temperatures above the ones displayed by the original brands and an almost equiatomic ratio between nickel and titanium elements.OTR motion significantly improved the fatigue resistance of both original and replicalike systems. The replicas showed higher cyclic fatigue resistance than original brand instruments and higher transition temperatures to the austenitic phase.

To compare the effectiveness of the XP-endo Finisher instrument and passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI) as final irrigation protocols on the removal of accumulated hard-tissue debris (AHTD) from oval-shaped canals using micro-computed tomographic (micro-CT) analysis. Twenty mandibular incisors were anatomically pair-matched based on similar morphological dimensions (length, volume, aspect ratio, and configuration) through micro-CT analysis, prepared with Reciproc R25 instrument, scanned again, and assigned to one of the two experimental groups (n = 10), according to the final irrigation protocol: XP-endo Finisher and PUI. After the final irrigation protocols, the specimens were rescanned and the registered datasets were examined to quantify the amount of AHTD. Data were statistically analyzed using Student’s t test with a significance level of 5%. The final irrigation protocols were highly similar in terms of volumetric percentage reduction of AHTD (P = 1.000). XP-endo Finisher and PUI showed the same effectiveness on the removal of AHTD. None of the tested final irrigation protocols completely removed the AHTD from oval-shaped root canals. AHTD may be considered clinically relevant because it could harbor bacterial contents away from the disinfection procedures. Both final irrigation protocols were effective on the removal of AHTD.

AIM To assess the shaping ability of the new XP-endo Shaper instrument after different working times. METHODOLOGY Ten mesial roots of mandibular molars were scanned in a micro-computed tomographic device and prepared using the XP-endo Shaper instrument up to the working length (WL) according to the manufacturer's recommendation. Then, each specimen was subjected to an extra 15, 30 and 45 s of active instrumentation at the WL. Postoperative scans were performed after canal preparation at each time-point. Then, the registered pre- and postoperative datasets were examined to evaluate the percentages of volume and surface area of the instrumented canal, surface area of noninstrumented canal areas and the volume of removed dentine. Repeated measures general linear model was used to compare the differences in either the increase or the reduction of the parameters amongst the time-points. Alpha-error was set at 5%. RESULTS Extending the period of XP-endo Shaper active instrumentation at WL significantly influenced several parameters such as volume (P