More certain therapeutic and significantly facilitated solution of everyday
endodontic problems are provided by the introduction of NiTi rotary files in
endodontic practice and their proper application. However, their widespread
use has caused more and more frequent fractures and has become a significant
frustrating factor that diminishes their numerous benefits. Torsional stress
and cyclic fatigue are the main reasons for the occurrence of a fracture,
and the frequency of NiTi file fractures is exactly proportional to the
degree of bending of the canal, knowledge of the features of the file, ie.
the skill and expertise of the therapist. The most dominant factor for the
occurrence of fractures is the dentist who, in addition to manual dexterity,
must have a good knowledge of the anatomy of various canal systems and file
design in order to make the best choice for each individual case. Properly
formed access cavity and knowledge of the working part of NiTi files enable
maximum realization of endodontic skills, increased efficiency of
intervention and reduced possibility of error during canal instrumentation.
The special treatment of NiTi alloy and new solutions related to the design
of the working part have significantly increased file flexibility and
resistance to cyclic fatigue. Specific design (reduced number of threads,
change of conicity, interruption of blade continuity), reduced engagement of
file, ie. change of dynamics of movement in the canal (full rotation,
reciprocal, eccentric, transaxial), as well as reduced number of processing
files, have also significantly influenced the reduction of fracture risks.
The aim of this paper was to analyze the most common reasons for the
fracture of NiTi files and emphasize measures and factors that can increase
their safe use and reduce complications during canal instrumentation.