Comparison of obturation quality, instrumentation time and post-operative pain using manual K-files and pediatric rotary files in primary molars – a double blinded randomised clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: to compare the quality of obturation, instrumentation time and post-operative pain after pulpectomy in primary molars using manual K-files, Kedo-S and Kedo-S Square rotary file systems. Material and Methods: a double blinded randomized control trial was conducted in 45 children, who were indicated for pulpectomy in any one of the primary mandibular molars. The canal preparation was done using either hand K-files, Kedo-S files, or Kedo-S Square files based on the groups assigned. The time taken for instrumentation was recorded using a stopwatch. The quality of obturation was evaluated using post-operative radiograph and post-operative pain was assessed with modified Wong-Baker Faces Pain scale. Results: instrumentation time was minimum in rotary Kedo-S Square files (53.23 ± 9.60 seconds) followed by Kedo-S files (82.70 ± 11.86 seconds). The preparation time was maximum with manual K-files (121.43 ± 20.18 seconds). Kedo-S square files provided a higher number of optimally filled canals (66.4%). All the three instrumentations equally showed the tendency to produce voids in the obturation. Rotary files Kedo-S Square followed by Kedo-S showed less post-operative pain compared to K-files. Conclusion: the use of pediatric rotary instruments for canal preparation during pulpectomy will result in better quality of obturation in reduced time with least post-operative pain.

KEYWORDS

Children; Hand files; Instrumentation; Pulpectomy; Rotary files.