Analysis of forces developed during obturations. Wedging effect: Part II

Abstract

The aim of this study was to use a force analyzer device, the modified Endographe with a new cupule, to compare the forces and wedging effects developed in the root canal using four obturation techniques: warm vertical compaction, lateral condensation, thermomechanical compaction, and Thermafil condensation. The different methods--that varied in instrumentation, duration, and compaction load--were studied from graphs representing the force application sequences. In addition, the graphs resulting from modifications in technique (such as using an undersized spreader and pluggers that were either too small or too big) and deliberately induced failures in technique (by use of a too small condenser or a too small master cone) were studied. The mean values for the wedging effect for warm vertical compaction, lateral condensation, thermomechanical compaction, and Thermafil condensation were, respectively, 0.65 +/- 0.07 kg, 0.8 +/- 0.1 kg, 0.6 +/- 0.08 kg, and 0.03 +/- 0.01 kg. The use of graphs provides a new approach to the analysis of obturation techniques.