Potentials of 3D-Modeling in the Preclinical Stage of Root Needle Research

INTRODUCTION: At present, the issue of high–quality processing of the root canal (RC) of the deciduous and permanent teeth remains important. However, the procedure is hindered by the complex anatomical shape of the RC and a presence of deltoid branches. A combination of the mechanical and drug treatment of the RC allows achieving the sterility of the tooth cavity, which is very important in the development of chronic periodontitis. However, to achieve sterility during drug treatment, dentists face a new problem of how to avoid damage to periodontal tissues using an antiseptic agent with the apical foramen opened. The technical characteristics of endodontic needles available for use at this stage failed to effectively solve this problem. Thus, the multitude of issues substantiates the need to improve the design of endodontic needles. AIM: To determine the optimal technical characteristics of endodontic root needles and to develop a new design of an endodontic needle that allows uniform irrigation of the RC delta with minimal probability of damaging the periapical tissues. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In designing an endodontic needle with the required technical characteristics, parameters that influence the quality of cleaning the RC were analyzed in SolidWorks 16 program. Computer modeling of the biological tooth model was implemented in SolidWorks Flow Simulation program. RESULTS: Computer modeling was used to improve the endodontic root needle. Technical results were achieved by incorporating in the design all the positive aspects of analogs and eliminating the disadvantages. The designed endodontic needle contained 1 hole on the tip and 168 holes arranged in a checker–wise manner on the lateral surface. All holes have the same diameter of 0.1 mm, which evens out the pressure, reduces the central flow rate to the rate of peripheral flows, ensures uniform irrigation, and minimizes the likelihood of damage to the alveolar process. CONCLUSION: A new model of an endodontic needle with one hole on the tip and 168 holes arranged in a checker–wise manner on the lateral surface ensures uniform irrigation of the RC surface and the entire perimeter with minimal likelihood of damaging periapical tissues even with the maximal depth of insertion of the needle into the RC.