Comparative evaluation of the radiographic density of GuttaFlow® 2 in different obturation techniques using Spiral Computed Tomography

Abstract

Background: Ideal root canal obturation depends on many factors; one of them is good sealing of root canal without pores. The aim of this study was to determine the radiographic density of GuttaFlow® 2 with different obturation techniques using spiral computed tomography. Materials and Methods: Forty palatal roots of permanent maxillary first molar were used in this study. Following working length determination, root canal was prepared using rotary PROTAPER universal system. They were randomly divided into four groups of 10 roots each, the groups are Conventional lateral condensation with Apexit Plus sealer, Conventional lateral condensation with GuttaFlow® 2 as a sealer, Soft Core Regular with GuttaFlow® 2 as a sealer and single cone with GuttaFlow® 2. The experimental roots were then analyzed in both horizontal and vertical sections from the apex to coronal using Spiral Computed Tomography. The obtained data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey tests at a level of significance of 0.05. Results: Statistical analysis showed highly significant differences among the different areas (apical, middle and coronal) of each group. The density of obturation systems decreased in the following sequence: single cone with GuttaFlow® 2 (highest density), Soft Core Regular, Conventional lateral condensation with GuttaFlow® 2 as a sealer and finally Conventional lateral condensation with Apexit Plus sealer (lowest density) Conclusion: None of the tested obturation techniques can achieve ideal three-dimensional dense obturation. Single cone with GuttaFlow® 2 shows the best results.