Influence of age on the extent of voids in root canals sealed using a cold lateral condensation technique

The aim of this study was to examine whether it is more difficult to achieve complete obturation of the root canal in teeth from different age groups, using the measurement of voids within the obturated canal to determine the quality of endodontic therapy. One-hundred and fifty-two single-rooted premolar teeth extracted from patients of known age were collected. Following cleaning and storage the teeth were decoronated and radiographed. Forty selected teeth were allocated to one of four age-groups, (under 20, 20-35, 36-50, over 50 years) each consisting of 10 teeth. The working length was determined radiographically and preparation was carried out using the step-back technique. Each canal was obturated using cold lateral condensation with Tubliseal cement. The roots were then sectioned longitudinally and photographed. Sections and transparencies were subjected to image analysis to determine the total areas of root canal, sealer and voids respectively and statistical analysis of the differences between the various age groups was undertaken. There was a trend towards a reduction in the areas of sealer and sealer plus void with respect to increasing age group, although no significant differences existed. A significant relationship (P < 0.05) was found between the area of voids found in the youngest group when compared with all other groups, the greatest cumulative area of voids being found in the youngest teeth.