Ultrasonic root end cavity preparation assessed by an in situ impression technique.
OBJECTIVE
In vitro studies have demonstrated microfractures in resected roots after root end cavity preparation with ultrasonic tips. Such microfractures are of concern; however, they may be artifacts.


OBJECTIVE
To assess the incidence of microfractures after ultrasonic root end cavity preparation in situ.


METHODS
Fifty-two roots in two cadavers were endodontically treated, the soft tissues excised, and the root ends exposed and resected. The resected root surfaces were replicated with polyvinylsiloxane impressions. Root end cavities were prepared with ultrasonic tips, then impressed a second time. The roots were retrieved; 25 were processed for direct SEM examination as were both the impressions of each root. The specimens were examined by stereomicroscope and scanning electron microscope.


RESULTS
In the impressions, the resected and prepared surfaces appeared irregular, but none demonstrated microfractures. In contrast, 15 retrieved roots showed microfractures.


CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasonic root end cavity preparation in situ did not cause root microfractures, and the impression technique could be clinically usable with minor modifications.
Calzonetti
K J
KJ
Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Iwanowski
T
T
Komorowski
R
R
Friedman
S
S
D016477:Artifacts; D003761:Dental Impression Technique; D003804:Dentin / Q000648:ultrastructure; D006801:Humans; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D018915:Root Canal Preparation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D014082:Tooth Fractures / Q000209:etiology*; D014092:Tooth Root / Q000293:injuries* / Q000648:ultrastructure; D014464:Ultrasonic Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects