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Effect of post preparation on the apical seal
The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry
|June 1, 1984
Summary
The mechanical method best removes gutta-percha for an adequate apical seal. Leaving at least 5 mm of gutta-percha significantly reduces apical leakage in root canal treatments.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Materials Science
Background:
- Root canal treatment aims to achieve a hermetic seal to prevent bacterial ingress.
- Gutta-percha is the most common root canal filling material.
- The quality of the apical seal is crucial for long-term treatment success.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively analyze apical leakage with varying amounts of remaining gutta-percha.
- To evaluate the impact of different gutta-percha removal techniques on the apical seal.
Main Methods:
- Extracted teeth were prepared with 3, 5, or 7 mm of remaining gutta-percha.
- Gutta-percha removal was performed using hot instruments, mechanical rotary instruments, or chemical solvents.
- Apical microleakage was measured electrochemically over 30 days.
Main Results:
- Mechanical gutta-percha removal demonstrated superior results.
- Increasing gutta-percha levels from 3 mm to 7 mm progressively decreased apical leakage.
- A minimum of 5 mm of gutta-percha was found necessary for an adequate apical seal.
Conclusions:
- Mechanical rotary instrumentation is the preferred method for gutta-percha removal.
- Maintaining a sufficient gutta-percha core (≥5 mm) is vital for achieving a reliable apical seal.
- These findings have implications for optimizing root canal retreatment procedures.
