In vitro comparison of apical leakage in root canals obturated with 0.04 and 0.02 tapered gutta-percha.
BACKGROUND
Gutta-percha is the most commonly used material for root canal obturation; it has been recently manufactured with different tapers. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare microleakage of canals obturated with standard gutta-percha (0.02 taper) or the new 0.04 taper gutta-percha master cone using the cold lateral condensation technique.


METHODS
Forty-four extracted single rooted teeth were selected. The crowns were removed and all the canals were prepared using RaCe rotary files. The teeth were then divided into experimental (n=2) and control (n=2) groups. In the first study group, the teeth were obturated with 0.02 taper gutta-percha master cone and lateral condensation. In the second study group, the canals were obturated by 0.04 tapered master cones and the same obturation method. The degree of leakage was measured using fluid filtration method. Data were analyzed statistically by student t-test.


RESULTS
There was no significant difference between the mean microleakage of two experimental groups (P=0.558).


CONCLUSIONS
Lateral condensation technique using 0.04 tapered master cones can provide an effective apical seal similar to 0.02 gutta-percha cones.
Department of Endodontics, Dental Research Center/Mashad University of Medical Sciences, Mashad, Iran.
Maryam
M
Bidar
Endodontist.
Ghazal
G
Sadeghi
Department of Endodontics, Dental Research Center/Mashad University of Medical Sciences, Mashad, Iran.
Maryam
M
Gharechahi
Endodontist, Dental Research Center/Mashad University of Medical Sciences, Mashad, Iran.
Mohammad
M
Mortazavi
Endodontist, Dental Research Center/Mashad University of Medical Sciences, Mashad, Iran.
Maryam
M
Forghani
Apical leakage; Filtration; Root canal obturation; Tapered gutta-percha