Sealer distribution in root canals obturated by three techniques.

AIM: The aim of this study was to observe sealer distribution in root canals filled by different root filling techniques.

METHODOLOGY: AH26 (0.05 mL) dyed with carbon black powder was placed into the prepared root canals of maxillary central incisors using a lentulo spiral. Thereafter the canals were obturated using three different gutta-percha root-filling techniques. Horizontal sections were cut in the apical and middle portions of the filled canals. Images of the cross sections were scanned and the percentage of sealer coated canal perimeter (PSCP) was measured using a computer digital imaging system.

RESULTS

At 3 mm from the apex, the PSCP after lateral condensation was similar to that after vertical condensation (P > 0.05). At 6 mm from the apex, however, the PSCP was significantly higher after lateral condensation than after vertical condensation (P < 0.05). At both levels the PSCP was significantly higher after single cone (no condensation) than after the other two condensation techniques (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Sealer may be removed from the canal wall by the condensation procedures.