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Thermafil retreatment using a new "System B" technique or a solvent.
J F Wolcott1, V T Himel, M L Hicks
1I. B. Bender Division of Endodontics, Albert Einstein Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA 19141-3098, USA.
Journal of Endodontics
|March 22, 2000
Summary
The System B HeatSource technique significantly reduced retreatment time for Thermafil obturation systems compared to traditional solvent methods. Both techniques effectively removed filling materials, ensuring successful retreatment.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Thermafil obturation systems utilize a solid plastic carrier that requires removal for retreatment.
- Efficient retreatment is crucial for successful endodontic procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy and time efficiency of a novel System B HeatSource technique versus a conventional solvent technique for Thermafil retreatment.
- To evaluate the completeness of carrier and filling material removal in both groups.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-two human mandibular premolars were obturated with Thermafil and randomly assigned to two retreatment groups: solvent (chloroform and hand files) or System B HeatSource.
- Retreatment time was recorded, and root sections were analyzed to quantify remaining filling material.
- Statistical analysis was performed using an unpaired t test.
Main Results:
- The System B HeatSource technique demonstrated a significantly shorter mean retreatment time (1.8 minutes) compared to the solvent technique (3.6 minutes) (p < 0.001).
- No significant difference was found in the amount of filling material (carrier, gutta-percha, sealer) removed between the two groups (p > 0.05).
Conclusions:
- The System B HeatSource technique offers a faster and efficient method for removing Thermafil plastic carriers during endodontic retreatment.
- Both techniques are effective in removing filling materials, but the System B HeatSource provides a time advantage.