Comparison of root canal preparation using Flex Master Ni-Ti and Endo-Eze AET stainless steel instruments

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare various parameters of root canal preparation using FlexMaster rotary nickel-titanium and Endo-Eze AET stainless steel instruments.Study designFifty curved mesial root canals of extracted mandibular molars were prepared to size 45 using FlexMaster or AET instruments. The following parameters were evaluated: straightening of root canal curvature, postoperative root canal cross-sections, cleaning ability, safety issues, and working time. Statistical analyses were performed using Mann-Whitney U test and Wilcoxon test.ResultsThe mean degree of straightening was significantly less for FlexMaster than for AET (P = .001). Postoperative cross-sections showed no significant differences between the systems. Neither of the systems completely eliminated debris and smear layer. No procedural incidents occurred with the instruments. Mean working time was significantly shorter for FlexMaster than for AET (P = .0001).ConclusionsAET cannot be recommended for preparation of curved root canals, owing to unacceptable straightening.