Zarc4Endo creates the first multi-alloy file system — who’s currently ahead in instrumentation/shaping techniques?

Dr. José Aranguren, endodontist, and cofounder of Zarc4Endo – Madrid, Spain, discusses the new revolutionary ZARC BlueShaper^® file system.

Introduction

Anticurvature shaping and lateral condensation has been relegated to antiquity. Modern endodontic obturation techniques now incorporate primarily a rotary or reciprocating mechanical procedure. When choosing shaping files, endodontists look for security (low risk of breakage), cutting efficiency, and flexibility. In early 2021, Zarc4Endo (ZARC) launched BlueShaper^®, the world’s first double-alloy file system. ZARC’s 6th-generation instruments mix multiple alloys, including ZARC’s new and proprietary pink alloy, giving more stiffness (stiffer alloy) without unwinding to the instruments that need higher cutting efficiency, and more flexibility and cyclic fatigue resistance (softer alloy) for the larger diameter instruments to prepare the apical area. The BlueShaper system simplifies and optimizes most root canal procedures. BlueShaper can shape canals faster with security while keeping the original anatomy largely intact.

Case discussion

A 42-year-old white male, experiencing pain on the lower left side of his mouth for several weeks, was referred from his general dentist. Clinical examination and periapical radiograph revealed a large carious lesion on tooth No. 19 and decay that was close to the pulp (Figure 1). Pulp and periapical testing were performed, confirming a diagnosis of irreversible pulpitis. The patient agreed to have root canal treatment performed the same day.

The patient was anesthetized with two carpules of 2% lidocaine 1:100,000 epi via an inferior alveolar block. Buccal and lingual infiltration were then performed with one carpule of articaine 1:100,000 epinephrine. The tooth was isolated with a rubber dam, and the decay was removed in the clinical crown. Upon access and debridement, MB, ML, DB, and DL canals were located. Irrigation was performed using full-strength sodium hypochlorite with side-vented Z-Rinse irrigation needles (ZARC, Madrid, Spain) while very carefully applying positive pressure. Working length was established with an apex locator. The four canals were cleaned and shaped with the ZARC BlueShaper double-alloy system, finishing with Z4 (25, 6% taper) and using the standard sequence Z1-Z2-Z3, and Z4.

A cone-fit radiograph was obtained to ensure proper length and fit after cleaning and shaping. A final rinse of 17% EDTA and 6% NaOCl was used in all four canals after which the canals were dried with paper points. NeoSEALER^® Flo bioceramic sealer (Avalon Biomed™, Houston, Texas) was placed in all the canals with the Avalon Biomed ultra-low-waste Flex Flo™ dispensing tip. The stopper was approximately 5 mm to 7 mm from the working length to minimize extrusion of the sealer. Finally, gutta-percha cones were placed inside the canals, and warm vertical compaction was used for the obturation. The bioceramic sealer flowed evenly and compacted well with no drying out at a temperature of 180ºC.

The postoperative radiograph (Figure 2), confirmed that the BlueShaper file system allowed for uniform and consistent shaping of the canals while maintaining the original canal anatomy despite significant curvatures.

The patient experienced no postoperative pain and will be recalled in 6 months. He was referred back to his general dentist for a final restoration within 30 days and to-date has remained asymptomatic.

Summary

We and our patients need security and efficiency in our treatments and, at the same time, a file system that provides flexibility to maintain the original canal anatomy. The BlueShaper file system is extremely versatile, yet simple, and combines all these characteristics. Contact Dr. José Aranguran at josearanguren@hotmail.com and on Instagram @endojosearanguren.

This information was provided by Avalon Biomed™.