Influence of Instrument Kinematics on Forces and Vibrations During Root Canal Shaping

Abstract

The dental structures experience stress during root canal instrumentation, and patients feel pain from both the instrument vibrations and the applied forces. The research evaluated three endodontic files based on their kinematics to determine which system delivered the best results for minimising treatment errors and achieving optimal outcomes between the 2Shape, WaveOne Gold (WoG), and Self-Adjusting File (SAF). The sample teeth have been mounted on cement blocks padded with a silicon layer to mimic the original condition, while they were intact with the jaw. The system received continuous mechanical feedback during the three endodontic file preparation process of the sample teeth. The precision dynamometer tracked the cutting forces which occurred during instrumentation while the accelerometer measured the vibrations that each file produced. The system enabled us to track file performance during our complete shaping work process. The data analysis suggests, the SAF system applied the lowest force among all three instruments, which resulted in less mechanical stress on root structures. The 2Shape system produced the lowest vibration signals compared to all other tested instruments, which could minimise patient discomfort during root canal treatment. The research demonstrates that SAF technology enables superior force control for dental structure protection, yet 2Shape instruments less vibrations. The selection of instruments depends on clinical needs because clinicians need to decide between instruments that use minimal force and instruments that produce less vibration. The presented research provides evidence for endodontic instrument selection, which helps dentists achieve better treatment results through tooth preservation and patient satisfaction improvement. © 2026, Ram Arti Publishers. All rights reserved.