Effect of torsional loading of nickel-titanium instruments on cyclic fatigue resistance

Introduction The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of torsional preload on the cyclic fatigue life of nickel-titanium rotary instruments. Methods ProFile (#25/0.06) (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) and ProTaper (F1; Dentsply Maillefer) were used. Each file was preloaded at 4 conditions (ie, no preloading and 25%, 50%, and 75% of mean ultimate torsional strength) of torsional prestress before the fatigue test. The torsional preloads were applied by securing 5 mm of the file tip while keeping the file straight, rotating it clockwise until the preset torque, and then returning to the original position. This motion was repeated until a preset number (10, 30, or 50) of repetitions were reached (n = 12). After torsional preloading, the number of cycles to failure was evaluated in a simulated canal. Data were analyzed using 2-way analysis of variance and the Duncan post hoc comparison. The fractured fragment surfaces were examined under a scanning electron microscope for the topographic features of fractured instruments. Results For both instruments, there was a significant effect because of the extent of torsional preloads. The 50% and 75% torsionally preloaded ProFile and all ProTaper preloading groups had a higher number of cycles to failure than the other group(s). There was little difference in the lateral view appearance between new and torsionally preloaded files. After cyclic fatigue testing, all preloaded instruments showed numerous microcracks adjacent to the fracture site on lateral view examination. The microcracks did not seem to follow the machining grooves on the instrument surface but rather ran irregularly. Conclusions The torsional preloads within the superelastic limit of the material may improve the cyclic fatigue resistance of nickel-titanium rotary instruments.