Date of Award
Spring 2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Dentistry
First Advisor
Mohamed Ibrahim
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare fluid dynamics in complex root canal systems shaped with minimally invasive versus progressively tapered file systems using single and double side-vented irrigation tips at different flowrates. Methods: Two identical, plastic mandibular molars were instrumented with minimally invasive and progressive file systems and scanned via micro-computed tomography. A computational fluid dynamics model was generated and enhanced with accessory canals and isthmus in the distal and mesial roots, respectively. The model replicated irrigation within complex canal anatomy using both a single and double side-vented, 30-gauge irrigation tip at four flowrates: 0.05, 0.10, 0.15 and 0.20 mL/s. Results: For all groups, as inlet flowrate increased, flow patterns, average wall pressure and wall sheer stress increased. Flow patterns increased when progressive instrumentation was used with a single side-vented irrigation tip. Average wall pressure and shear stress of the distal root was highest with minimally invasive instrumentation using a single side-vented irrigation tip and lowest with progressive instrumentation using a double side-vented irrigation tip. Average shear stress in the mesial root was highest in the isthmus and secondary canals with minimally invasive instrumentation and a single side-vented irrigation tip was used and lowest with progressive instrumentation and a double side-vented irrigation tip. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, complex anatomy is irrigated most efficiently with a single side-vented, 30-gauge irrigation tip and increased flowrate in canals shaped with minimally invasive instrumentation.