Synchrotron radiation-based micro-computed tomographic analysis of apical transportation of different Nickel–Titanium rotary systems in curved root canals

Abstract

Background: In the last few decades, the availability of synchrotron sources has initiated revolutionary advances in X-ray imaging. Aims: The study aimed to evaluate the incidence of apical transportation after root canal preparation with ProTaper Gold (PTG), Hyflex electro discharge machining (HEDM), Reciproc (RPC), and WaveOne Gold (WOG) using synchrotron radiation-based micro-computed tomographic (SR–μCT) analysis. Materials and Methods: Forty mandibular molars were assigned to four experimental groups (n = 10) according to the file system used for the root canal preparation: Group 1: PTG (25/0.08), Group 2: HEDM (25/0.08), Group 3: RPC (25/0.08), and Group 4: WOG (25/0.07). The specimens were scanned on SR–μCT system before and after the root canal preparation. Apical transportation was assessed at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 mm section. Statistical Analysis: Two-way analysis of variance and Wilcoxon Mann–Whitney test was used. Results: No significant difference was found between the groups. Transportation in the mesial direction was of greater magnitude than distal transportation for all the files systems. Conclusion: SR–μCT can be used as a reliable diagnostic tool for further implications.