A new paradigm for filling and sealing root canals

The first recorded root canal filling was placed 2,200 years ago. However, a plethora of new types of canal-filling materials and techniques have been introduced very recently, which are described and discussed in this article. Many of these new techniques (thermomechanical compaction and thermoplasticized gutta-percha) are variations of the vertical compaction of warm gutta-percha. Others are combinations of gutta-percha techniques and silver points (Thermafil, Densfil). Apical third and injection-type fillings are also available. This article also discusses the future of canal fillings, including calcium phosphate cements and dentin adhesives.