Apical Extrusion: Is It an Inherent Occurrence During Every Endodontic Treatment?

The aim of this literature review was to analyze all available scientific data on apical extrusion and to identify and associate the possible factors influencing the occurrence of apical extrusion, ranging from the choice of the canal shaping system, the irrigation technique, to the choice of diameter and the apical limit of preparation. A bibliographic search for relevant articles on apical extrusion of debris, irrigants, and bacteria was performed using the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ScienceDirect. This search identified articles published between 2010 and 2023 in two languages (French and English). After selective sorting, 25 relevant documents were included. All the studies retained clearly agree on the inherent nature of apical extrusion during endodontic treatment. At the same time, we also understand that the amount of extrusion can be influenced by a number of parameters throughout endodontic therapy. According to this review, despite the undeniable nature of apical extrusion during endodontic therapy, studies with relatable experimental models that approach in vivo conditions are required to establish exploitable conclusions regarding apical extrusion and its prevention.

Efficacy of reciprocating and rotary retreatment nickel-titanium file systems for removing filling materials with a complementary cleaning method in oval canals

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of the S1 reciprocating system and the D-Race retreatment rotary system for filling material removal and the apical extrusion of debris.

Materials and Methods

Sixty-four freshly extracted maxillary canines were shaped with size 10 and size 15 K-files, instrumented using ProTaper Gold under irrigation with 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), obturated according to the principle of thermo-mechanical condensation with gutta-percha and zinc oxide eugenol sealer, and allowed to set for 3 weeks at 37°C. Subsequently, the teeth were divided into a control group (n = 4), the D-Race rotary instrument group (n = 30), and the S1 reciprocating instrument group (n = 30). After classical retreatment, the canals were subjected to a complementary approach with the XP-Endo Shaper. Desocclusol was used as a solvent, and irrigation with 2.5% NaOCl was performed. Each group was divided into subgroups according to the timing of radiographic readings. The images were imported into a software program to measure the remaining filling material, the apical extrusion, and the root canal space. The data were statistically analyzed using the Z-test and JASP graphics software.

Results

No significant differences were found between the D-Race and S1 groups for primary retreatment; however, using a complementary cleaning method increased the removal of remnant filling (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Classical removal of canal filling material may not be sufficient for root canal disinfection, although a complementary finishing approach improved the results. Nevertheless, all systems left some debris and caused apical extrusion.