Evaluation of the Accuracy of NiTi K-Files and Gutta-Percha Cones in Gauging the Apical Foramen Using the Scanning Electron Microscopy: A laboratory study

Authors

Marie-Louise Slim, OMFS-IMPATH Research Group, Department of Imaging and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.Follow
Roula El Hachem, Saint Joseph's UniversityFollow
Lara Nasr, université saint joseph de BeyrouthFollow
Romy Zouein, Saint Joseph University of BeirutFollow
Rami Mhanna, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, American University of BeirutFollow
Mia Karam, American University of BeirutFollow
issam khalil, Saint Joseph University of BeirutFollow

DOI

https://doi.org/10.70174/iajd.v16i1.1389

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of apical gauging using NiTi K-files and gutta-percha cones and determine the level of agreement between the two methods using a Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).

Methods: 75 circular and straight canals of mandibular first premolars were used. Canals were shaped using the R-Motion system (RM; FKG Dentaire, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland) and gauged using NiTi K-Files and gutta-percha cones matching the shaping instrument. Diameters measured on SEM images were used as the reference standard.

Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the prediction of apical diameter by gauging with both NiTi K-Files (P

Conclusions: NiTi K-Files and gutta-percha cones have similar accuracy but are not accurate in gauging the apical foramen.

Recommended Citation

Slim, Marie-Louise; El Hachem, Roula; Nasr, Lara; Zouein, Romy; Mhanna, Rami; Karam, Mia; and khalil, issam (2025) "Evaluation of the Accuracy of NiTi K-Files and Gutta-Percha Cones in Gauging the Apical Foramen Using the Scanning Electron Microscopy: A laboratory study," International Arab Journal of Dentistry: Vol. 16: Iss. 1, Article 6.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.70174/iajd.v16i1.1389
Available at: https://digitalcommons.aaru.edu.jo/iajd/vol16/iss1/6