A Comparative Evaluation Of The Canal Centering Ability Of Three Rotary File Systems: An In Vitro Study

Background: Canal centering is the ability of the instrument to stay centered within the root canal. This prevents canal transportation, perforation, preserves dentin and increases strength of the tooth. Recent NiTi endodontic file systems are manufactured with heat treatment technology that improves the canal centering ability of these files. Aim: To compare the canal centering ability of Protaper Gold, Hyflex CM and Profile S3 endodontic file systems using cone beam computed tomography. Materials and Methods: Thirty mesial root canals in fifteen extracted mandibular molars were included in the study. Access cavities were prepared and WL was established. The canals were divided into 3 groups (n=10) : Group 1 - Protaper Gold (PTG); Group 2 - ProFit S3 (PS3); Group 3 - Hyflex CM (HCM). Pre and post-instrumentation CBCT was taken. The canal centering ability was assessed at 3, 6 and 9 mm from the root apex. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA and post hoc Tukey test. Results: The mean canal centering ratio for PTG at 3 mm was 1.85mm, at 6 mm was 1.53 and at 9 mm was 1.9mm. That for Profit S3 was 1.6, 1.49 and 1.6mm respectively; while for Hyflex CM was 1.6, 1.56 and 1.71mm respectively. There was no statistical difference at any level between any of the groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: All the file systems remained relatively centralized within the root canal. Hence they can be used in curved canals without fear of canal transportation or straightening