Cone–Beam Computed Tomography Evaluation of Rotary MM Files vs Manual K Files in Primary Molars: An In Vitro Study

Abstract

Aim: Rotary instrumentation in pediatric dentistry is an emerging concept, thus this study was performed to evaluate the remaining dentine thickness (RDT), canal transportation, centering ability, quality of obturation using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and the time efficiency of rotary versus manual instrumentation in mandibular second primary molars. Materials and methods: Forty mandibular primary second molars (160 canals) were randomly and equally allocated to four groups. Instrumentation was done using K files in groups I and II; in each group, the obturation was done by two different obturation techniques; incremental technique and disposable syringe technique, respectively. MM rotary files (Innovative Material and Devices, Inc. [IMD], Shanghai, China) were used in groups III and IV; in each group, the obturation was done by incremental technique and disposable syringe technique. Preoperative and postoperative CBCT scans were performed and evaluated for the RDT, centering ability, canal transportation, and the canal filling quality, which was assessed as (underfill, optimal fill, and overfill). Instrumentation time was recorded for groups I and II collectively (manual instrumentation), and groups II and III collectively (rotary instrumentation). Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square, ANOVA, and post hoc Tukey tests, at p < 0.05).