Separated Instrument Retrieval from the Maxillary Canine using only Ultrasonic Energy and Non-Vital Bleaching with Hydrogen Peroxide: A Case Report

Abstract

A fractured file within the root canal system can hinder the root canal's mechanical and chemical cleaning, adversely affecting the treatment prognosis. Ineffective cleaning of the root canal system and the corrosion of the fractured instrument within the canal can lead to tooth discoloration. This case report presents the successful removal of an obliquely positioned fractured instrument in a partially obliterated and discoloured maxillary right canine tooth using only ultrasonic energy, followed by non-vital bleaching with hydrogen peroxide. It emphasizes the efficacy of integrating ultrasonic tools, a dental operating microscope, and cone-beam computed tomography in treating such challenging cases. The removal of the fractured instrument using ultrasonic tips can be defined as a safe and conservative technique. Non-vital bleaching can provide quick, cost-effective, and aesthetically pleasing results in discoloured teeth with pulp canal obliteration, which can be challenging for clinicians.