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Microscopic and chemical evaluation of the filling quality of five obturation techniques in oval-shaped root canals
Davide Mancino1,2, Naji Kharouf1,2, Mauro Cabiddu3
1Department of Endodontics and Conservative Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Strasbourg, 67000, Strasbourg, France.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to assess the filling quality of five obturation techniques in oval-shaped root canals.
Materials And Methods:
A total of 212 mandibular first molars with one distal oval canal were selected. Distal canals, shaped with WaveOne Gold Primary, were randomly divided in five groups (n = 40) for obturation: continuous wave condensation, GuttaCore, Thermafil, single cone with AH plus, and single cone with BioRoot RCS. The proportions of gutta-percha-filled areas (GPFA), sealer-filled areas (SFA), void areas (VA), and the sealer/gutta tags into dentinal tubules at 4 mm and 2 mm from the apex were analyzed by an optical numeric microscope, SEM, and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX). Data were then compared by Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA on ranks (α = 0.05).
Results:
At 4 mm, a statistically significant higher GPFA and lower SFA were observed in the GuttaCore and Thermafil groups compared with the 3 other groups. A statistically significant lower VA was observed in the continuous wave condensation, GuttaCore, and Thermafil groups than in the two single-cone groups. At 2 mm, there were a statistically significant higher GPFA and lower SFA and VA in GuttaCore and Thermafil groups than in the 3 other groups. At the two levels investigated, the presence of gutta-percha tags was clearly demonstrated for GuttaCore and Thermafil groups; no tags were observed in the 3 other groups.
Conclusions:
Obturation quality was overall improved in GuttaCore and Thermafil groups.
Clinical Relevance:
Carrier-based techniques may significantly improve the filling quality compared to continuous wave condensation and single-cone technique. The single-cone technique might have inherent limitations especially in oval root canals regardless of the sealer used.
