Comparative evaluation of gutta-percha removal efficiency of Protaper gold and Waveone gold systems using orange oil: An In-vitro study

Objective: To evaluate and compare the effectiveness of two advanced rotary endodontic file systems using orange oil in removing obturation material from root canals. Method: The experimental in-vitro study was conducted at the Department of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, Sindh Institute of Oral Health Sciences, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, from December 7, 2023, to May 31, 2024, and comprised extracted, single-rooted teeth with straight canals that were cleaned, prepared, obturated and then randomised into ProTaper Gold Group A and WaveOne Gold group B. Variables examined and recorded were length of remaining gutta-percha in canal (mm), gutta-percha extrusion through apex (yes/no) and time taken for gutta-percha removal. Data was analysed using SPSS 23. Results: Of the 32 teeth, 16(50%) were in each of the two groups. All the 32(100%) teeth showed some residual obturation material within the canal. The amount of root filling remaining was significantly reduced in Group B compared to Group A (p=0.007). Conclusion: The mean gutta percha removal from root canals when using WaveOne Gold files was significantly better compared to the use of ProTaper Gold files. WaveOne Gold files also showed minimal extrusion, and took less time for gutta percha removal from root canal spaces. Key Words: Gutta percha removal, WaveOne Gold, ProTaper Gold, Orange oil, Endodontic retreatment.