Evaluation of the quality of different endodontic obturation techniques by digital radiography

Abstract

This study was aimed to evaluate different endodontic obturation techniques (Thermafil, lateral condensation, and Tagger's hybrid technique) regarding the homogeneity of the obturation radiopacity. Seventy roots of human upper central incisors were filled using the Thermafil system, lateral condensation. and Tagger's hybrid technique. Radiopacity of the filling was evaluated based on mean of grey levels, and its homogeneity was assessed by the coefficient of variation (CV), analyzing the histograms obtained of digitized and digital radiographs. The increase in mean grey levels (p < 0.001) and reduction in the CV (p < 0.05) were higher for Tagger's hybrid technique compared with other methods. Tagger's hybrid technique provided better homogeneity of the obturation radiopacity and better apical sealing compared with lateral condensation technique. The results suggest that Tagger's hybrid technique provided the best compaction of the root canal filling material, an important factor for the sealing of obturations and, consequently, for the effectiveness of treatment.