Surface Coating of Nickel-Titanium (Ni-Ti) Pediatric Rotary File Using Graphene Oxide: A Scanning Electron Microscopy Analysis

Background: The effectiveness of endodontic files relies significantly on the characteristics of the outermost layer, which can be greatly improved through suitable surface treatments and appropriate coatings. Graphene-based materials (GBMs) have been utilized to fabricate nanocomposite coatings aimed at improving surface characteristics and mechanical behavior, including resilience, sustainability, oxidation resistance, solidity, and traction. Aim: This research aims to study the surface topography of a nickel-titanium (Ni-Ti) pediatric rotary file coated with graphene oxide (GO) using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Methods: The study utilized Ni-Ti pediatric rotary instruments that were 16 mm long and had the same ISO tip size of #25. The Ni-Ti pediatric rotary files had a titanium oxide coating that needed to be removed for the application of the GO coating. The GO coating was applied to the files using an electrophoretic deposition (EPD) procedure. Data were gathered to evaluate the surface topography and structural profiles of the GO-coated endodontic files through SEM analysis. Results: SEM imaging showed that the GO coatings consisted of numerous layers of GO sheets, which were uniformly and thoroughly applied to the endodontic instrument. A substantial portion of the GO layers aligned with neighboring layers along the edges, creating a continuous structure. Conclusion: GO coatings were effectively applied to Ni-Ti endodontic instruments using EPD. The deposition of the GO coating is consistent throughout the surface of the Ni-Ti rotary instrument.