Impact of Various Sleeve Materials on Temperature Variations During Guided Endodontic Access Cavity Preparation Utilizing Finite‐Element Analysis

PURPOSE: Guided endodontics allows precise access in challenging cases such as calcified canals; however, drilling can generate temperature increases that risk damaging periradicular tissues. This study aimed to evaluate the influence of different sleeve materials-zirconia, cobalt-chromium (CoCr), and titanium-on temperature changes during guided endodontic access using finite-element analysis (FEA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: High-resolution three-dimensional (3D) models of a human central incisor and titanium sleeve were developed using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), 3D Slicer, Meshmixer, and SolidWorks. FEA simulations were conducted in Abaqus under a 2° deviation and 700 rpm drilling, with thermal properties based on literature. Experimental validation employed thermocouples to determine the temperature changes under identical conditions. RESULTS: Results showed that zirconia sleeves produced the lowest temperature elevation (< 10°C) with localized concentration, while CoCr and titanium allowed more even heat dissipation. CONCLUSION: Zirconia is an effective insulator due to its thermal conductivity properties. CoCr has emerged as a promising alternative to titanium, offering more favorable thermal and mechanical characteristics.