Shaping ability of thermomechanically treated files in simulated S-shaped root canals

Aim: the aim of this study was to investigate the shaping ability of thermomechanically treated files manufactured by twisting (Twisted files) and compare it to conventional rotary system (K3, Sybron Endo, Orange, CA) in S-shaped canals, including formation of ledges, zipping, elbow, outer widening, danger zone, perforation and file deformation. Materials & Methods: Forty S-Shaped canals in resin blocks were randomly divided into 2 groups of 20 each. Pre-instrumentation images of the canals were taken via a digital camera and superimposed on images taken after preparation with TF and K3 systems to apical size of 25/06 and 30/06. Canal aberrations were measured from the superimposed image at five levels using AutoCAD system. Fisher exact test and Mann Whitney test were used for analysis of the data. Results: the incidence of zipping, elbow and apical transportation was significantly lower in the TF group (P = 0.04). Generally the incidence of aberration increased when the apical size increased to 30/0.06 regardless of the file system. Significant file deformation was evident in the TF after single use (P ˂ 0.001). Conclusion: Under the conditions of this study, TF manufactured by new technique performed better than K3 systems when used up to size 25/06 in simulated S-shaped canals. Clinical significance: The flexibility of thermomechanically treated files is beneficial in canals with multiple curvatures; however, attention should be paid to the instrument taper and final apical size of the preparation.