Walter T. Cunningham

Evaluation of root canal débridement by the endosonic ultrasonic synergistic system

The endosonic ultrasonic synergistic system was compared to conventional hand-filing and irrigating techniques for its ability to débride the root canal system. Extracted human teeth were endodontically prepared by conventional and ultrasonic techniques. The roots were cross sectioned and evaluated microscopically at the 1, 3, and 5 mm. levels from the apex for cleanliness. The endosonically prepared canals were significantly cleaner at all levels.

Effect of temperature on collagen-dissolving ability of sodium hypochlorite endodontic irrigant

The collagen-dissolving ability of both 2.6% and 5.2% sodium hypochlorite endodontic irrigating solutions was compared at room temperature (21 degrees C) and body temperature (37 degrees C). The 2.6% sodium hypochlorite solution at a temperature of 37 degrees C. was found to be equally effective as a collagen-dissolving agent when compared to 5.2% sodium hypochlorite at either 21 degrees C. or 37 degrees C.

A scanning electron microscope evaluation of root canal débridement with the endosonic ultrasonic synergistic system

Abstract Endosonic and conventional hand-filing techniques were compared, by means of scanning electron microscopy, for their ability to debride root canal walls. The endosonic ultrasonic system was found to be significantly superior.

Ultrasonic versus hand filing of dentin: a quantitative study.

Ultrasonic versus hand-powered K type files were compared for their ability to remove dentin from a standardized canal. The ultrasonic energized file removed a significantly greater amount of dentin in a fixed time period.

The effect of endosonic and hand manipulation on the amount of root canal material extruded

Abstract The amounts of root canal material extruded from extracted human teeth during hand and endosonic manipulation were compared. Less material was extruded when preparation was within the confines of the canal and when the endosonic system was employed.

A comparison of antimicrobial effectiveness of endosonic and hand root canal therapy

Abstract Endosonic and conventional hand-filing techniques were compared for their ability to reduce Bacillus subtilis spore contamination in root canals of extracted human teeth. The results of this study suggest that the endosonic system cleans more effectively.

Effect of temperature on the bactericidal action of sodium hypochlorite endodontic irrigant

When the in vitro bactericidal action of 2.6 percent sodium hypochlorite endodontic irrigating solution was compared at room temperature (22 degrees C.) and at body temperature (37 degrees C.), sterility was achieved in significantly less time at 37 degrees C.

A quantitative comparison of the ability of diamond and k-type files to remove dentin

Diamond endodontic files and K-type files were compared for their ability to remove dentin when powered both by hand and by ultrasound. The diamond files were significantly superior dentin-removing instruments, especially when energized by ultrasound.

An evaluation of postoperative pain incidence following endosonic and conventional root canal therapy

Abstract Endosonic and conventional techniques of root canal preparation were compared for the incidence of postoperative pain following treatment by the two methods. No significant difference in the amount of postoperative pain was recorded in 328 patients treated by the two techniques.

Effect of alcohol on the spreading ability of sodium hypochlorite endodontic irrigant.

Abstract As a measure of the effect of ethanol on the ability of sodium hypochlorite to penetrate narrow openings such as root canals, mean distances of movement for combinations of these agents were measured in capillary tubes. The addition of ethanol as a surface tension depressant significantly increased the ability of the sodium hypochlorite endodontic irrigant to penetrate in vitro. A freshly mixed solution containing 30 percent ethanol is recommended.