Influence of gutta-percha cone disinfection on leakage: comparison of two sealability assessment methodologies

Abstract

Aim: To clarify the influence of 5.25% sodium hypochlorite disinfection of gutta-percha cones on leakage and to compare the outcomes of two sealability assessment methodologies (fluid filtration and dye penetration methods). Methods: Thirty teeth were prepared and filled using the guttapercha lateral condensation technique. Group I was filled with gutta-percha cones disinfected with sodium hypochlorite 5.25%, while Group II was filled with cones that were not disinfected. Apical leakage was measured using: (a) fluid filtration technique and (b) linear measurement of dye penetration after clearance. Results: The Student’s t-test showed no significant difference between the groups for both techniques (p<0.05). Conclusions: Both methodologies employed, even with the inherent limitations, were capable of identifying sealing failures. The disinfection of gutta-percha cones with 5.25% sodium hypochlorite did not alter apical leakage.