Arzu Kaya Mumcu, Zeynep Yağmur Özdemir Tekin, Safa Kurnaz, Arzu Şahin Mantı, Gülsen Kiraz
Turkish Endodontic Journal - 2026;11(1):54-62
Purpose: This study investigated the effect of different nickel-titanium file systems and irrigation protocols on the accuracy of working length measurements during root canal preparation. Methods: A total of 72 extracted mandibular central incisors were decoronated at 18 mm. Actual lengths (AL) were determined using a hand file and digital caliper under a microscope. Teeth were divided into four main groups based on irrigation solution, and then into two subgroups by file system: 2.5% or 5% NaOCl with/without 9% HEDP, combined with either WaveOne Gold(WOG) or WaveOne(WO). Root canals were shaped using WOG or WO files with a VDW Gold Reciproc motor in an alginate model simulating the oral environment, following the respective irrigation protocol. Electronic lengths (EL) were determined using an integrated electronic apex locator. EL-AL differences were calculated and analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests (p<0.05). Results: No significant differences in EL-AL values were observed among the main irrigation solution groups or between files with different heat treatments (p>0.05). All tested conditions showed clinically acceptable accuracy. Conclusion: These findings suggest that the type of file system and irrigation solution, including continuous chelation, do not compromise the reliability of EL determination during endodontic treatment.
