[Root canal filling--manual and mechanical methods]

A satisfactory apical seal can be achieved with all the methods listed in this article. The result depends on the experience and skill of the operator using his or her standard method. One single method, however, does not always adequately meet the requirements arising from the morphology of the canals, the alignment of the tooth in the dental arch, jaw opening, and the conditions governing the preparations of the root canal. The time saving aspect favors the use of engine-driven instruments. The use of thermomechanical methods and the injection method is limited in the posterior jaw area. Similar to preparation, all methods present difficulties in handling certain situations, such as narrow, curved canals, or wide open foramina in straight canals. The so-called standard methods of manual techniques provide reliable good results in almost any situation.