Evaluation of the dimensional stability of different thermoplasticized gutta-percha fillings using simulated glass root canals

The dimensional stability of different thermoplasticized gutta-percha fillings was analyzed using simulated glass canals. For comparison, gutta-percha fillings obtained with the cold lateral condensation technique was used. The evaluation was done at 0 min, 2 min, 5 min, and 30 min after the filling was completed. The general analysis showed statistically significant differences between 0 min and 5 min-30 min recordings. No significant differences were found between 0 min and 2 min, and between 2 min, 5 min, and 30 min. Although warm lateral condensation resulted in a poor obturation, it was the only thermoplasticized technique analyzed that did not produce significant volumetric changes between 0 min and 30 min. All the other thermoplasticized filling techniques showed important shrinkage during cooling.