Endodontists experience using ultrasonics for removal of intra-canal fractured instruments

Aim: To investigate the experience of UK endodontists with aspects of ultrasonic use for removal of intra-canal fractured instruments. Methodology: A questionnaire form comprising both close-ended and partially close-ended questions with a covering letter explaining the aims of the study and indicating that all information would remain confidential and anonymous were sent to 180 endodontists working in the UK. Non respondents received a reminder with a differently worded covering letter. After collecting the responses, data were entered into SPSS software through which frequencies were determined and the chi-square test at the 0.05 level of significance, when required, was applied. Results: Overall, 97% of endodontists reported the use of ultrasonics for removal of fractured instruments. The majority of them (78%) used ultrasonics with a coolant at least some of the time. Forty-seven per cent of users activated tips at medium to maximum power settings. The greatest proportion (53%) activated the tips for approximately 10 s. Conclusions: Endodontists reported different techniques when using ultrasonics for removal of fractured instruments. © 2010 International Endodontic Journal.