Temperature change within gutta-percha induced by the System-B Heat Source

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Warm vertical compaction is a common endodontic technique for root canal filling.
• The System-B Heat Source is frequently used for this procedure.
• Understanding temperature changes during this process is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate temperature variations in gutta-percha during vertical compaction using the System-B Heat Source.
• To assess the impact of root canal diameter on temperature changes.
• To determine the safety of the procedure for surrounding periradicular tissues.

Main Methods:

• Extracted human teeth were prepared and divided into two groups based on apex diameter.
• Root canals were instrumented and filled with gutta-percha.
• Thermocouples were placed at specific root surface locations (apical and cement-enamel junction).
• Teeth were maintained at 37°C, and warm vertical compaction was performed.

Main Results:

• Negligible temperature increase of gutta-percha was observed in the apical third.
• Apical gutta-percha compaction occurred at body temperature.
• Minor temperature increases on the outer root surface were recorded, with no significant difference between root canal groups.

Conclusions:

• The System-B Heat Source maintains a safe apical temperature during warm vertical compaction.
• The procedure poses no danger to periradicular tissues due to minimal temperature elevation.
• Gutta-percha compaction at the apex occurs effectively at body temperature.