NEW YORK, USA/LEIPZIG, Germany: Endodontic procedures that only require one rotary instrument are causing controversy among specialists worldwide. In internet forums, endodontists are discussing the Pros and Cons of the new procedure. Several single reciprocating file systems have been launched by dental manufacturers over the last few months.

Developed by Canadian-Libanese scientists, the single file endo concept is said to require only one reciprocating file and no glide path or initial instrumentation for the majority of root canals. According to the manufacturers, the technique is supposed to cut working time and lower cross-contamination between patients, a common problem associated with the use of multiple files.

However, specialists are not so sure. “This current trend in file design and philosophy is the equivalent of doing brain surgery with a hammer and chisel. Anyone, who truly believes that Hess type anatomy can be dealt with by using one rotary file, is delusional,” a specialist in an US-based endo forum said.

“The technique requires a new motor, which will turn off many dentists who are already working with conventional rotary NiTi instruments,” a German internet blogger commented. “The bottom line is that the system has to offer considerable advantages or it will be rejected by the market despite its potential.”

In a recent Dental Economics article, Manhattan-based dentist Dr Barry Musikant said that the technique could create a new standard for intrument use in endodontics. “Common sense says that single usage is a rationalisation to compensate for the weaknesses of rotary NiTi.”

Most reciprocating systems are already available in major markets.