Supporting Your Practice

Reciprocating vs Rotary File Systems

CDA Oasis September 21, 2021

Dr. RODRIGO CUNHA

When it comes to file systems for endodontic treatment, is it a case of either reciprocating or rotary, or is there a place for both?

In this edition of CDA Oasis Live Dr. John O’Keefe invites Dr. Rodrigo Cunha, endodontist from Winnipeg MB, to share his insight into the pros and cons of reciprocating and rotary file systems.

“We must remember that it is not the file that is going to be doing the root canal. The file is only the instrument. It is the professional behind the motor that is performing the root canal.” - Dr. Rodrigo Cunha

Here are the key takeaways from the conversation:

In Dr. Cunha’s view, a combination of both reciprocating and rotary files is often the best option.
It is important to remember that it is not the file that is doing the root canal. The file is just the instrument. It is the professional behind the motor that is performing the root canal.
The best file system to use is the one that you are used to. The more you use a system, the more you learn how to use it.
When performing the shaping protocol in the middle and apical portion of the canal, Dr. Cunha likes to use a reciprocating system for a number of reasons:
- - Lower incidence of file separation
  - The learning curve to master the reciprocating system is shorter than with rotary systems
Although in vitro studies show that the reciprocating system is linked to an increase in debris extruded from the apex, studies in the clinical setting have shown no increase in postoperative pain when comparing the two systems.

We hope you find the conversation useful. We welcome your thoughts, questions and/or suggestions about this post and other topics. Leave a comment in the box below or send us your feedback by email.

Until next time!
CDA Oasis Team