Quality of thermoplasticized and single point root fillings assessed by micro-computed tomography

Somma F, Cretella G, Carotenuto M, Pecci R, Bedini R, De Biasi M, Angerame D. Quality of thermoplasticized and single point root fillings assessed by micro‐computed tomography. International Endodontic Journal Aim To evaluate ex vivo the quality of root fillings completed by two thermoplasticized gutta‐percha techniques (Thermafil and System B) and a cold gutta‐percha technique (single point) by μCT analysis. Methodology A total of 30 freshly extracted human single‐rooted permanent teeth were selected. Root canals were prepared with ProTaper Universal instruments and then randomly divided into three groups (n = 10) depending on the filling technique. In group 1, canals were filled with a single‐point technique; group 2 was filled with Thermafil; in group 3 System B was used. In group 1 and group 3, the root filling was performed using ProTaper Universal gutta‐percha points, in group 2 Thermafil obturators were used; AH‐Plus sealer was used in all groups. Assessment of the root filling was carried out by μCT, using a desktop X‐ray micro focus CT scanner. Percentage of root canal filling materials and voids was calculated for each specimen. Data were statistically analysed using Kruskal–Wallis test (P