Prevention of Instrument Breakage by Creating a Mechanical Reproducible Glide Path
By Dr. Yosef Nahmias
On November 15, 2024, we hosted a groundbreaking event at the Dentsply Sirona Academy focused on a critical issue in endodontics: Prevention of Instrument Breakage. This course, presented by Dr. Yosef Nahmias, provided insights into techniques designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of root canal treatments, ensuring a better experience for both practitioners and patients.
Instrument breakage remains one of the most frustrating and challenging events that endodontists face in their daily practices. A broken instrument can complicate treatment, increase patient discomfort, and even lead to costly re-treatment. At this event, Dr. Nahmias delved into a technique that aims to prevent instrument breakage through the creation of a mechanical reproducible glide path. This strategy helps in minimizing the risk of instrument separation, even in the most challenging of cases.
The course covered essential concepts and advanced techniques that participants could integrate into their practices. Here’s an overview of the key learning objectives:
Define a Reproducible Glide Path
Participants gained a thorough understanding of what constitutes a reproducible glide path and its importance in preventing instrument breakage.
Use of Mechanical Instruments
The course demonstrated how mechanical instruments can be utilized to create a glide path that maintains stability and reduces the chance of breakage during treatment.
Prevention of Instrument Breakage
A significant focus was placed on how to reduce the likelihood of instrument separation in the root canal system by using specific techniques that ensure smoother, more controlled shaping.
Reciprocating Instruments in Root Canal Shaping
The use of reciprocating NiTi instruments was explored in depth, emphasizing how they can help in shaping root canal spaces more efficiently and safely.
CBCT Technology for Complex Cases
The role of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) was discussed as a diagnostic tool that provides critical 3D insights into complex endodontic cases, allowing for more accurate treatment planning.
Incorporating Strategies into Daily Practice
By the end of the session, participants had a clear understanding of how to incorporate these new strategies into their routine practice to enhance patient outcomes and avoid costly complications.
One of the most exciting parts of this event was the hands-on component, where attendees could apply the techniques discussed in the lecture. This practical session allowed participants to implement the strategies for creating a mechanical reproducible glide path and gain valuable real-time experience.
Participants were asked to bring extracted teeth with endodontic access completed, giving them the chance to practice on actual specimens. This provided a unique opportunity to refine their skills under the guidance of experts in the field.
The event at the Dentsply Sirona Academy on November 15th, presented by Dr. Yosef Nahmias, was an invaluable experience for all those who attended. By addressing the problem of instrument breakage and providing practical solutions, participants left with enhanced knowledge and confidence to tackle even the most complex endodontic cases. The integration of mechanical glide paths, reciprocating instruments, and advanced diagnostic tools like CBCT will undoubtedly contribute to safer and more effective root canal treatments in everyday practice.
We’re looking forward to hosting more events that provide innovative solutions and cutting-edge techniques to support the dental community. Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming courses!