Comparative study of two canal obturation techniques by image analysis and EDS microanalysis.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the marginal adaptation achieved by two obturation techniques (lateral condensation and Thermafil) using human teeth prepared by continuous rotation with the HERO 642(R) system.


METHODS
The percentages of gaps and sealer on the root canal surface were determined by analysing the images of 12 sections per tooth. Tubule sealer penetration was assessed by backscattered scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectrometry microanalysis.


RESULTS
The Thermafil obturation technique resulted in virtually no gaps and very low amounts of sealer on the root surface, unlike the lateral condensation technique. Tubule sealer penetration occurred with both techniques, but was deeper, especially in the mid and apical zones, with the lateral condensation technique.
Guigand
M
M
Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dental Surgery, University of Rennes 1, 2 place Pasteur, 35000 Rennes, France. martine.guigand@univ-rennes1.fr
Glez
D
D
Sibayan
E
E
Cathelineau
G
G
Vulcain
J-M
JM
D018772:Dental Marginal Adaptation; D004577:Electron Probe Microanalysis; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D012387:Root Canal Filling Materials; D012389:Root Canal Obturation / Q000379:methods*; D018915:Root Canal Preparation / Q000379:methods; D012542:Scattering, Radiation; D013052:Spectrometry, X-Ray Emission; D015032:Zinc / Q000032:analysis
D012387:Root Canal Filling Materials; D015032:Zinc