Passive step-back technique. A sequential use of ultrasonic and hand instruments.
Step back, step down, crown down, balanced forces techniques and their variations have been proposed to clean and shape the root canal systems. Ultrasonic instruments have also been used to clean and shape pathologically involved root canals. Because neither of these techniques alone can completely clean complex root canal systems, a step-by-step sequential use of ultrasonic and hand instruments that uses the advantages of both techniques and eliminates most of their disadvantages is described in this article. Proper use of this technique produces cleaner canals and less transportation of root canals, reduces procedural accidents, and is convenient for the operator as well as the patient.
Torabinejad
M
M
Department of Endodontics, Loma Linda University, School of Dentistry, Calif.
D006801:Humans; D012390:Root Canal Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D014464:Ultrasonic Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation*