Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Endodontics: Part 7 Preparing the root canal

Success in endodontic treatment depends almost completely on how well the root canal is shaped and cleaned. This part will cover the principles of root canal preparation, irrigation, root length determination, intracanal medication, and temporary fillings.
There have been more developments in recent years in this aspect of endodontic practice than any other. New instruments have been developed, employing different metals and different engineering philosophies. There has been a significant move away from the ISO standard 2% taper instrumentation.

Two root canal preparation techniques using hand instruments will be described in detail, as these are the standard techniques currently taught in most dental schools, and are considered to be the most efficient and suitable for clinical dental practice. Details are also given of the use of engine-driven rotary instruments.