SCIENTIFIC ARTICLES

Tomographic Analysis of Root Canal Preparation with Manual Instrumentation: Stainless Steel Files Versus New Nickel-Titanium M-Files

Biomechanical preparation is a crucial step in endodontic treatment, responsible for shaping, cleaning and decontaminating the root canals for subsequent filling. However, performing this preparation in an ideal manner is always challenging, especially in complex anatomies, where there is a risk of deviation from the original canal bed. For years, this preparation was performed at the expense of stainless steel instruments, which, because they are rigid, present an increased risk of causing deviations and transposition of the apical foramen. They also require the use of cervical preparation drills, which allow for greater removal of dentin, reducing tooth longevity. In this context, nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments have brought a new direction to endodontic preparation. Because they are more flexible, they adapt to the complex conformations of the root canal, promoting more effective, safe, anatomical and agile shaping, with reduced professional stress and greater comfort for the patient.