Effect of a Combination of Torsional and Cyclic Fatigue Preloading on the Fracture Behavior of K3 and K3XF Instruments

Abstract Introduction The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of various degrees of cyclic fatigue on torsional failure and torsional preloading on the cyclic fatigue life of heat-treated K3XF nickel-titanium (NiTi) instruments (SybronEndo, Orange, CA). Methods The mean number of cycles until failure (Nf ) of K3XF and K3 NiTi instruments was examined in a 3-point bending apparatus with a 7-mm radius and 45° curve. Torque and distortion angles at failure of new instruments and instruments stressed to 25%, 50%, and 75% of the Nf were measured according to ISO 3630-1. Other new files were preloaded at 25%, 50%, and 75% of the mean distortion angles before the fatigue test. After torsional preloading, the Nf was examined. The fracture surface of each fragment was examined with a scanning electron microscope. Results The fatigue resistance of K3XF instruments was 2 times higher than that of K3 instruments ( P