Analysis of the surface cut by sonic files.

The purpose of this investigation was to compare 3D profilometry and SEM analysis of a polished surface of bovine bone instrumented by sonic files. Two situations where investigated, i) no operator assisted movement, ii) operator assisted movement. Heliosonic, Rispisonic and Shaper files were investigated at full power setting and an interfacial load of 100 grams. The specimens were subjected to analysis using a 3D Form Talysurf prior to being sputter coated with gold and viewed under an SEM. The 3D surface analysis was found to be complimentary to SEM evaluation in that each provided additional information to the other. 3D analysis proved to be excellent for showing the topographical nature of the cut surface and gave a better indication of depth than the SEM. Debris was however more apparent on SEM evaluation. Each file showed distinctive characteristics in the shape that was cut. The cutting appeared to be as a result of abrasion with no operator assisted movement and was as a result of the longitudinal file action. However when movement was superimposed on this action continuous chip formation was apparent especially for the Rispisonic and Shaper files.