Fracture of endodontic instruments - Part 1: Literature review on factors that influence instrument breakage

Abstract

Instrument fracture is a serious complication during endodontic treatment of teeth, having an adverse effect on the outcome of the nickel titanium (NiTi) treatment, especially if the fracture prevents apical access to the infected root canal. Despite the advent of NiTi files, the risk of fracture during the endodontic preparation of root canals, especially in severely curved canals, remains a serious concern. The fracture of NiTi files during preparation may result in a compromised prognosis for the tooth. In the presence of periapical lesions, instrument fracture may reduce the chances of successful healing.

Retrieval of broken file and retreatment of previously treated mandibular left second molar

“…This tool also has a unique "feedback" system to measure tip resistance, regulate tip movement, thereby reducing the potential for tip damage. 12,13 A technique mostly used before treating other broken files involves the use an endodontic microscope to improve the visualization of the broken files and precision of file removal. Endodontic microscopy is often used to observe the location of the mesiobuccal canal at high magnification.…”