Comparative Evaluation of Root Canal Retreatment Techniques and the Effect of Supplementary Cleaning on Curved Canals Obturated with Premixed Bioceramic Sealer

Introduction

The retreatment of curved root canals remains challenging, particularly with the increased use of premixed bioceramic sealers, which exhibit more difficult retrievability. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of 2 retreatment systems—RECIPROC blue and VDW.ROTATE retreatment—in removing obturation materials from curved canals filled with either a bioceramic sealer (iRoot SP) or an epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus). The study also evaluated the additional cleaning effect of XP-endo Finisher R.

Methods

Sixty extracted mandibular molars with mesiobuccal canals possessing 20–40° curvature were divided into 4 groups based on the sealer and retreatment technique used. Canals were obturated with either AH Plus or iRoot SP, followed by retreatment using either RECIPROC blue or VDW.ROTATE retreatment. Supplementary cleaning with XP-endo Finisher R was used in all groups. Microcomputed tomography was used to evaluate the volume of residual filling material and apical transportation.

Results

RECIPROC blue achieved significantly higher success in regaining apical patency compared to VDW.ROTATE retreatment. Supplementary cleaning with XP-endo Finisher R significantly reduced residual materials in all groups.

Conclusion

RECIPROC blue is more effective in retreating curved canals filled with bioceramic sealer, and supplementary cleaning using XP-endo Finisher R further enhances canal cleanliness.