[Clinical evaluation of ProTaper NiTi rotary instruments in management of curved root canals].

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical effect of the new ProTaper Nickel-titanium rotary instruments in preparation of curved root canals. METHODS: 68 teeth with curved root canals were instrumented by ProTaper rotary instruments using crown-down technique, and by K files using step-back technique for control. All teeth were obturated with lateral condensation method. The efficiency of preparation and obturation was analyzed with radiographs before, during and after operation. RESULTS: No transportation, apical blockage and ledge were found in test. The technique could keep the curvature and flow of curved canals. There were two ledge and more apical transportation (P < 0.01) in control than in test. The operative time was shorter and post treatment pain seldom occurred in ProTaper group. CONCLUSION: The ProTaper NiTi rotary instruments can prepare curved root canals effectively and safely. It is an efficient instrumentation method for curved canals and can be used widely.