Investigation of the canal space occupied by gutta-percha following lateral condensation and thermomechanical condensation.

Abstract

Summary. Since root canal sealers and pastes can cause tissue irritation, the quantity of biologically inert gutta‐percha should constitute more than 90 per cent by volume of the root canal filling. The root canals of 40 extracted incisors with straight root canals were enlarged sequentially to size 50 and the canals were obturated, either by lateral condensation or thermomechanical condensation using standardized gutta‐percha points and Grossman's sealer. After being stored in moistened gauze for 6 hours at 37°C, transverse sections 1 mm from the apex were made, and the area of gutta‐percha in relation to the total cross section of the canal was determined planimetrically using a light microscope. Sections of teeth filled by the lateral condensation method contained 92.7 per cent gutta‐percha, while whose filled by thermomechanical condensation contained 89.1 per cent. As a result lateral condensation continues to be recommended as the filling method of choice for dental practice.