Introduction: The mandibular first molar poses a series of anatomic challenges such as multiple canals, isthmuses, lateral canals, and apical ramifications. Additionally, the distal surface of mesial root presents a thin zone, which is 4-6 mm cervical to canal orifice with a thin area of dentin termed as “danger zone,” as it increases the risk of perforation of furcal dentin during mechanical instrumentation.
Aim: To measure the amount of the dentin removed after biomechanical preparation with XP-Endoshaper and Neoendo flex files in the danger zone of the mandibular first molar using CBCT.
Methodology: Twenty-four mandibular first molars, the mesial roots of which presented a curvature of 20-30 degrees, were selected using the Schneider method. Samples were instrumented with Neoendo rotary file system (n=12) and XP-Endoshaper rotary single file system (n=12). The samples were scanned using CBCT before and after instrumentation. The analyzed parameter includes the remaining dentin thickness at the danger zone of the mandibular 1st molar. The obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis.
Results: There was no significant difference in remaining dentine thickness between the two rotary systems (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: XP-Endoshaper revealed better results than Neoendo rotary files. However, both rotary file systems showed no significant difference in the remaining dentin thickness in the danger zone of the mandibular first molar.
Keywords: Danger zone, Remaining dentine thickness, XP EndoShaper, NeoEndo, CBCT.