Photoelastic stress comparison of warm (Endotec) versus cold lateral condensation techniques

Stress generated during gutta-percha obturation of root canals can create microcracks and ultimately lead to failure. A new thermosoftening device, the Endotec, which develops a warm lateral condensation technique, was tested against the traditional lateral condensation procedure. The results indicated that the warm lateral condensation technique created less stress during obturation than did cold lateral condensation.