Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Shaping Ability for FKG Dentaire and ProTaper Next Files on Preservation of Canal Width and Degree of Taper

Objectives: This current study was performed to evaluate the ability of two rotary filing systems; namely, FKG Dentaire NiTi files (La Chaux-de-Fonds,Switzerland) and ProTaper Next NiTi files (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) in preservation of canal width and degree of taper after instrumentation in root canal system. Materials and Methods: A total of sixty-four freshly extracted single-rooted first mandibular permanent human premolar teeth with single canals were selected. The teeth were then decoronated and the canals were instrumented. Teeth were then divided into two main groups, consisting of thirty-two each. Root canals were prepared using the FKG Dentaire system in the first group and the PTN (ProTaper Next) system in the second group. Degree of canal width changes and change in canal taper were measured by using the Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) before and after root canal instrumentation. Finally, all data were collected and statistically analyzed by the aid of the paired Studentu0027s t and Chi-square test. Results: At the minimal width changes measurements, 1mm from the apex, it was found that no significant difference exists between the mean and standard deviation of pre-instrumented and post-instrumented groups using FKG system, (P=0.0756). However, a significant difference exists between the mean and standard deviation of pre- and post-instrumented groups using the PTN system, (P=0.0117). On the other hand, at the maximum width changes measurements, 7mm from the apex, it was found that a significant difference exists between the mean and standard deviation of pre- and post-instrumented groups using FKG system, (P=0.0015). While a highly significant difference exists between the mean and standard deviation of pre- and post-instrumented groups using PTN system, (P=0.0005). Conclusion: Under certain conditions of this study, FKG system appears to remove lesser dentin with more tendency to preserve the canal taper and decrease any unneeded enlargement.