EVALUATION OF THREE OBTURATION TECHNIQUES IN THE APICAL PART OF ROOT CANAL

Area of Science:

• Endodontics
• Dental Materials Science
• Microscopy

Background:

• Root canal obturation is critical for long-term tooth function.
• Achieving a complete seal in the apical third of the root is crucial but challenging.
• Current obturation techniques vary in their effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate and compare the quality of root canal filling in the apical third using three distinct obturation techniques.
• To identify potential gaps between filling material and root dentin.
• To assess microleakage associated with each technique.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 36 extracted human teeth, divided into three groups for lateral condensation, Gutta-Master, and Gutta-Fussion obturation.
• Sectioned roots into apical, middle, and coronal thirds.
• Performed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on apical sections to analyze gaps and microleakage using modified R. Tanikodas criteria.

Main Results:

• No technique achieved hermetic obturation; all showed some degree of microleakage.
• Lateral condensation (Group A) exhibited the most frequent interphase weakening.
• Thermoplastic obturators (Gutta-Master and Gutta-Fussion) demonstrated superior adhesion to canal walls compared to lateral condensation.
• Gutta-Fussion (Group C) showed a better overall obturation quality than Gutta-Master.

Conclusions:

• Complete hermetic sealing of the root canal system remains a challenge with current obturation methods.
• Thermoplastic obturation techniques offer improved adhesion but do not eliminate microleakage.
• Further research is needed to optimize root canal filling techniques for enhanced long-term prognosis.