Unveiling the Performance of Nickel-Titanium Endodontic Instruments through Multimethod Research: A Review

Abstract

This article aims to explore the importance of multimethod research in assessing the performance of nickel-titanium (NiTi) endodontic instruments. The review highlights the limitations of relying solely on measurements obtained through a narrow set of mechanical tests and acknowledges the challenge of replicating real-world working conditions in controlled laboratory settings. While achieving a perfect simulation may be difficult, the focus should be on developing research strategies that provide a superior understanding of outcomes. The multimethod research, which combines qualitative and quantitative methodologies, offers a promising solution to address this challenge effectively. By integrating nonquantifiable data with quantitative measurements, researchers may overcome the limitations of individual methodologies and gain deeper and more comprehensive insights into instrument performance. This multimethod approach enables a more accurate interpretation of results, enhancing the validity of the methodology. Therefore, conducting a comprehensive analysis of various competencies displayed by NiTi systems is essential for a comprehensive understanding of their characteristics, including cyclic fatigue, torsional and bending resistance, cutting efficiency, microhardness, design analysis, element composition, phase transformation temperatures, shaping ability, and additional methodologies that can address specific inquiries. By combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies in a multimethod approach, researchers can enhance their ability to answer research questions and provide valuable insights for clinical practice.