The Journal of the American Dental Association
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J Am Dent Assoc, Vol 138, No 2, 196-201.
© 2007 American Dental Association
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CLINICAL PRACTICE

JADA Continuing Education

A dozen ways to prevent nickel-titanium rotary instrument fracture



Peter M. Di Fiore, DDS, MS

Background and Overview. With the increased use of nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments for root canal preparation in endodontics, instrument fracture has become more prevalent. Extensive research has been conducted on the physical properties and mechanical characteristics of NiTi rotary instruments, as well as the factors that can contribute to instrument failure. NiTi rotary instruments are subjected to torque and are susceptible to cyclic fatigue, which are the main causes of instrument fracture. However, with an understanding of how these instruments function in preparing root canals and by applying ways to reduce torque-generated metal fatigue, clinicians can use the instruments safely in clinical practice.

Results. The author presents 12 measures that clinicians can take to prevent NiTi rotary instrument fracture and discusses them in detail.

Clinical Implications. NiTi rotary instrument fracture complicates the progress, and compromises the prognosis of endodontic treatment. However, when clinicians take appropriate measures, rotary instrument fractures can be prevented.

Key Words: Nickel-titanium; rotary; instrument; fracture; prevention

Abbreviations: NiTi: Nickel-titanium • SEM: Scanning electron microscopic






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