Comparative evaluation of the remaining dentin thickness using Solite RS3 and ProTaper Universal retreatment files: A nanocomputed tomography study

Aim: One of the main goals of instrumentation during retreatment is to preserve the remaining dentin during gutta-percha retrieval. The current study assesses the remaining dentin thickness after retreatment using two different retreatment file systems. Methods: Forty extracted single-rooted teeth were obturated and decoronated at a standard root length of 16 mm. Two groups of twenty single-root teeth each were randomly divided from the samples, and Solite RS3 retreatment and ProTaper Universal retreatment (PTUR) files were used for instrumentation, respectively. Pre- and postoperative nanocomputed tomography scans were obtained, and 3D reconstruction was carried out for analysis. The remaining dentin thickness was determined by taking sections of the preoperative and postoperative samples at 7, 5, and 3 mm from the apex. The mean volume of dentin removed was also calculated. The statistical analysis between the two groups was conducted using an independent t -test. Results: When compared to PTUR files, Solite RS3 retreatment files demonstrated a significant difference at all three levels: 3, 5, and 7 mm from the apex ( P < 0.000). The mean volume of dentin removed was lesser in Solite RS3 files in comparison to PTUR files ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: Based on the aforementioned findings, we conclude that Solite RS3 preserves more dentin in comparison to the PTUR system.