SP-36 Newer / Old Technique for Preventing File Separation; Is Slow-down Rotary Instrumentation the Key?
CE Hours: 0.75
Description: File separation remains a persistent and frustrating challenge in root canal preparation. Despite the abundance of literature offering tips and techniques to minimize this risk-and even more articles and devices focused on retrieval of separated files-the problem continues to be prevalent. Studies report a 2-6% incidence of file separation in overall endodontic cases, with 80-83% occurring in molar teeth, where canals are tighter and more curved-the daily battleground of the endodontist. This presentation explores solutions: What truly can reduce file separation? Is it RPMs settings? Torque settings? File design or cross-section? File control and directional movement? File metallurgy? Operator technique error? Or perhaps the steep learning curve for mastering rotary instrumentation? We'll explore these questions through a review of current literature, clinical experience, and a candid discussion of what may be the "Elephant in the Room" of endodontics.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify pre-operative and initial canal management steps to evaluate and assess the risk of file separation.
- Evaluate the techniques and devices that can be utilized to reduce or prevent file separation.
- Describe how the application of "Slow-Down Rotary Instrumentation" in difficult and challenging cases can reduce the rate of motor file separation without compromising root canal preparation ideals.
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LockedSteven Larsen, D.D.S, M.S.
Dr. Steven Larsen, D.D.S., M.S., earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Northwestern University in Chicago. After nine years of general practice, he returned to Northwestern to complete a residency and Master of Science in Endodontics. Dr. Larsen practiced endodontics in Logan, Utah, where he also held leadership roles in the local ADA district and with the Utah AAE. He has lectured at the Utah Dental Association Annual Meeting, presented a hands-on endodontic course at the Academy of General Dentistry Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City, and given numerous presentations for dental study groups throughout his career. As an Assistant Professor in the Endodontic Department at the University of Utah School of Dentistry, Dr. Larsen achieved one of his career goals: helping students to learn, understand, and apply the fundamental principles of endodontics. Because "Endodontics is easy to make complex", Dr. Larsen prefers to ‘keep endodontics as simple as possible—it's better that way.'†Developing simple methods to teach endodontic skills to pre-clinical students was challenging, but it proved rewarding when they successfully applied those skills in the clinic. His focus has been centered on techniques of root canal instrumentation, and he has developed and patented innovative products designed to simplify and safely prepare canals.
Disclosure(s): Venta Endo: Ownership Interest (stocks, stock options, patent or other intellectual property or other ownership interest excluding diversified mutual funds) (Ongoing)