NiTi Endodontic Files — ORE Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: B — Greater flexibility in curved canals
Explanation lettering: C = shown as A · A = shown as B · D = shown as C · E = shown as D · B = shown as E
A is correct. NiTi files are substantially more flexible than stainless-steel files. This allows them to follow the original anatomy of curved canals more closely and is associated with less canal transportation. This is the principal clinical advantage of NiTi instrumentation. Greater cutting efficiency is not the defining advantage of the alloy and depends on factors such as file design, flute geometry and motion. NiTi instruments are generally not chosen because they cost less; indeed, they commonly cost more. There is no meaningful advantage in radiographic visibility, and resistance to repeated sterilisation is not the main material benefit relevant to canal shaping.
Reference: Del Fabbro M, Afrashtehfar KI, Corbella S, et al. In Vivo and In Vitro Effectiveness of Rotary Nickel-Titanium vs Manual Stainless Steel Instruments for Root Canal Therapy: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29478682/