title: Influence of operator proficiency on the sealing ability of the vertical condensation.
abstract: This study sought to evaluate on a long-term basis the quality of the apical seal of the vertical condensation performed by three operators with different levels of proficiency in vertical compaction. Ninety anterior teeth were used. After cleaning and shaping to a size 30 file, the teeth were divided into three equal groups. Then, vertical condensation was performed. Apical microleakage was determined using pressurized fluid filtration at 90 min, 1 day, and 1, 4, 12, 18, and 24 wk after root canal obturation. Leakage tended to increase over time for the three groups. Teeth obturated by an inexperienced operator showed greater long-term leakage.
authors.affiliation: Department of Oral Fundamental Sciences, Dental School, Lebanese University, Beirut.
authors.forename: F B
authors.initials: FB
authors.lastname: Dagher
authors.forename: G M
authors.initials: GM
authors.lastname: Yared
mesh_terms: D000704:Analysis of Variance; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003763:Dental Leakage / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003815:Dentists; D006171:Gutta-Percha; D006801:Humans; D011787:Quality of Health Care; D012389:Root Canal Obturation / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*
chemical_list: D006171:Gutta-Percha