This study compared the buckling resistance of 3 nickel-titanium (NiTi) retreatment file systems and the torque/force generated during retreatment.

The buckling resistance was compared among the D-RaCe (DR2), HyFlex Remover, and Mtwo R25/05 retreatment systems. J-shaped canals within resin blocks were prepared with ProTaper NEXT X3 and obturated by the single-cone technique with AH Plus. After 4 weeks, 4 mm of gutta-percha in the coronal aspect was removed with Gates-Glidden drills. Retreatment was then performed using DR1 (size 30, 10% taper) followed by DR2 (size 25, 4% taper), HyFlex Remover (size 30, 7% taper), or Mtrwo R25/05 (size 25, 5% taper) (15 specimens in each group). Further apical preparation was performed with WaveOne Gold Primary. The clockwise torque and upward force generated during retreatment were recorded. After retreatment, resin blocks were examined using stereomicroscopy, and the percentage of residual filling material in the canal area was calculated. Data were analyzed using 1-way analysis of variance with the Tukey test.

The HyFlex Remover files exhibited the greatest buckling resistance (p < 0.05), followed by the Mtwo R25/05. The HyFlex Remover and Mtwo R25/05 files generated the highest maximum clockwise torque and upward force, respectively (p < 0.05). The DR1 and DR2 files generated the least upward force and torque (p < 0.05). The percentage of residual filling material after retreatment was not significantly different between file systems (p > 0.05).

NiTi retreatment instruments with higher buckling resistance generated greater clockwise torque and upward force.

This study compared the mechanical properties of various instruments for canal exploration and glide-path preparations.

The buckling resistance, bending stiffness, ultimate torsional strength, and fracture angle under torsional load were compared for C+ file (CP, Dentsply Maillefer), M access K-file (MA, Dentsply Maillefer), Mani K-file (MN, Mani), and NiTiFlex K-file (NT, Dentsply Maillefer). The files of ISO size #15 and a shaft length of 25 mm were selected. For measuring buckling resistance (n = 10), the files were loaded in the axial direction of the shaft, and the maximum load was measured during the files' deflection. The files (n = 10) were fixed at 3-mm from the tip and then bent 45° with respect to their long axis, while the bending force was recorded by a load cell. For measuring the torsional properties, the files (n = 10) were also fixed at 3-mm, and clockwise rotations (2-rpm) were applied to the files in a straight state. The torsional load and the distortion angle were recorded until the files succumbed to the torque.

The CP was shown to require the highest load to buckle and bend the files, and the NT showed the least. While MA and MN showed similar buckling resistances, MN showed higher bending stiffness than MA. The NT had the lowest bending stiffness and ultimate torsional strength (p < 0.05).

The tested instruments showed different mechanical properties depending on the evaluated parameters. CP and NT files were revealed to be the stiffest and the most flexible instruments, respectively.