Effects of chelating agent (RC – Preparation) on surface characterization of profile nickel-titanium endodontic instruments

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of a chelating agent, RC-prep, on the surface characterization of nickel-titanium endodontic instruments. The instruments were immersed in RC-prep for varying times up to 1 hour. The surface elements analysis of all instruments was carried out using electron microscope fitted energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analyzer. Surface analysis revealed no significant change in the amount of Ni, Ti and NiO for all the time intervals. However, there was statistically significant increase in the concentration of TiO2, after 5 minutes, ½ hour and 1 hour immersion times. In conclusion, the surface treatment of NiTi files with RC-prep may affect their biocompatibility.