Canal shapes produced sequentially during instrumentation with Quantec SC rotary nickel-titanium instruments: a study in simulated canals

Aim The aim of this study was to determine the shaping ability of Quantec SC nickel-titanium rotary instruments in simulated root canals. Methodology Forty simulated canals consisting of four different shapes in terms of angle and position of curvature were prepared with Quantec SC instruments. Sequential still images were taken of the canals using a video camera attached to a computer with image analysis software. Images were taken preoperatively, and then after instrument 7 (Size 25, 0.05 taper), instrument 8 (size 25, 0.06 taper), and instrument 10 (size 45, 0.02 taper) were taken to length. Each sequential postoperative image was superimposed individually over the preoperative image in order to highlight the amount and position of material removed during preparation. Results Overall, the mean preparation time to size 10 was 3.6 min with 12 mm canals taking on average less time than 8 mm canals, There was a highly significant difference between the canal types (P < 0.0001), No instruments fractured within the canal or deformed, although one instrument separated from the latch grip. All canals remained patent. Following preparation to size 10, 19 canals (48%) retained their length, eight (20%) lost length, and 13 (32%) gained length; the magnitude of the change in length was always 0.5 mm or below. Following preparation to size 7 instruments all canals showed aberrant shapes. Excess removal of material along the outer aspect of the curve between the beginning of the curve and the end-point (outer widening) was found in 26 canals (65%) after instrument 7. At the same stage of preparation six canals (15%) had zips, three (8%) had ledges and five (13%) had perforations. Following preparation to size 10, 27 (68%) canals were perforated. Conclusions Under the conditions of the study, Quantec SC instruments consistently produced aberrations when canals were enlarged to size 7 (size 25, 0.05 taper) or above. Care should be exercised when using these instruments in real teeth.