Graduate Endodontic Resident University of Texas at Houston Houston, Texas, United States
Objective: Cold testing is used routinely in endodontics as an essential pulp sensibility test to aid in reaching a definitive diagnosis. Historically there have been several modes of application for cold testing: ice, CO2 snow, and 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane (Endo Ice). Currently, the most widely used application is Endo Ice spray. The can is packaged with a directional extension tube (DET) and the manufacturer’s instructions recommends its use. The objective is to demonstrate the advantages of using the DET for reducing product waste, saving time and money. Concise Description of Technique: Two models were constructed to demonstrate the use of Endo Ice. Model 1 used Endo Ice without the DET, while Model 2 used Endo Ice with the DET attached. In both models a cotton pellet was placed equal distance from the site of distribution, spray was dispensed for an equal amount of time, and a glass slab was positioned behind and below the cotton pellet to capture excess product. Excess splatter from both models were compared to determine extent of waste.
Conclusions: Cold testing with Endo Ice utilizing the supplied DET and following the manufacturer’s instructions may lead to reduced product waste, thereby saving resources and time.
