ASSESSMENT OF ROOT CANAL WORKING LENGTH EMPLOYING MANUAL AND ROTARY INSTRUMENTATION TECHNIQUE. AN IN VITRO STUDY

Abstract

Background:

The objective of root canal treatment is to eliminate infection and irritants from the root canal system.Working length determination and maintenance are essential for the success of treatment. To determine changes in root canal working length after preparation with manual or rotary instrumentation technique.

Methods:

This In vitro Quasi Experimental study was carried out over a period of six months. Mandibular molars, extracted due to caries or periodontal reasons and mesiobuccal canals, with curvature between 20- 400 were included.In Group A preparation was carried out with ProTaper instruments and in group B with manual Nickel Titanium files. An ISO #15 NiTi file was placed in the canal and radiograph taken to determine working length.Upon completion of preparation, radiograph with #30 NiTi file was taken and working length assessed. Changes in working length were assessed by comparing preoperative and postoperative values. Data analysis was done withPaired and Independent sample ttests using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 available at university campus. P-value < 0.005 was taken as statistically significant.

Results:

Working length was better maintained in ProTaper group as compared to group prepared with Manual Ni-Ti instruments.

Conclusion:

ProTaper instrumentation technique maintained working length better than manual instrumentation technique.