Finite element analysis of bending and torsional loading of ProTaper Gold, ProTaper Next, and ProFit S3 endodontic rotary files
S. Delphine Priscilla Antony, Pradeep Solete, Sruthi Sairaman, S Swathi, Surendar Ramamoorthi, Ahmed El-Kabbaney, Mohannad AlasqahObjectives
Using finite element analysis (FEA), determine and compare the mechanical characteristics such as bending and torsion of the ProTaper Gold (PTG), ProTaper Next (PTN), and ProFit S3 (PS3) rotary file systems about displacement during bending and torsional forces accumulated in the files as a preliminary study.
Patients and methods
All files have been converted into computer-aided design Models using Reverse Engineering techniques. The three dimensional computer-aided design modelling of all files has been generated using the SolidWorks software of Hyrax. Once the three dimensional model was ready, it was converted to an FE model using Hypermesh software, and all the preprocessing was carried out in Hypermesh software. Mathematical analysis was done on the mechanical behaviour of the various models in bending and torsion. Mathematical analysis was done on the mechanical behaviour of the multiple models under bending and torsion.
Results
The highest Von Misses stress value for bending tests was associated with PTN at 1161.26 MPa, PS3 at 1149.4 MPa, and PTG at 980.67 MPa, which had a displacement of 13.12 mm in PS3, 10.82 mm in PTN and 5.23 mm in PTG. During the Torsion test, the Von Misses stress values were 256.64 MPa for PS3, 266.08 MPa for PTN, and 71.16 MPa for PTG.
Conclusion
The current rotary files showed increased flexibility and higher torsional resistance. The alloy used in the manufacturing process has a more significant influence on its mechanical properties. The PTN FE model and PS3 FE model showed the highest flexibility during the bending test, and torsional resistance was better in PTG than in the other two FE models. Clinically, the FEA aids in optimizing file design and material properties to enhance durability and reduce the risk of instrument fracture during root canal procedures.