A comparison of apical sealing and extrusion between Thermafil and lateral condensation techniques

Forty curved canals from 20 mesial roots of extracted human mandibular molars were instrumented (Profile .04) using a crown-down technique and divided into two groups. The experimental group was obturated using the Thermafil technique and the control group was obturated using the lateral condensation technique. Topseal sealer was used in both groups. Apical extrusion was recorded. Two molars were used as control teeth. All specimens were stored in 100% humidity for 1 wk, coated with nail polish, except for the apical 2 mm, and were suspended in black India ink for 48 h. Molars were decalcified, rendered transparent, and linear dye penetration was measured. Linear dye leakage and apical extrusion between the techniques were not statistically different (Mann-Whitney U test).