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This study analyzed the adaptation of gutta-percha to prepared root canal walls using two obturation techniques and determined the influence of the System-B plugger depth on filling adaptation. Fifty-six extracted human mandibular molars were instrumented using Profile NiTi rotary instruments, stratified based on curvature, then randomly distributed into two groups. Group 1 was obturated using the single-cone continuous-wave technique. Group 2 was obturated with a hybrid technique: lateral condensation followed by a continuous-wave down-pack. Based on System-B plugger penetration, teeth were divided into three subgroups: (a) < 3.5 mm, (b) 3.5 to 4.5 mm, and (c) > 4.5 mm. Roots were horizontally sectioned at 1 mm and 3 mm coronal to the apical foramen, stained, and photographed. Four evaluators scored the adaptation of gutta-percha to the prepared canal walls. In 100% (n = 56) of the samples, no statistically significant difference existed between the two obturation methods at 1-mm (x = 1.80, SD +/- 0.69) or 3-mm (x = 1.804, SD +/- 0.69) sections. Best results were obtained with a plugger depth 3.5 to 4.5 mm from the working length.

A clinical tip is suggested to assist in the removal of Therma-fil obturators during conventional endodontic retreatment. Using a heat source such as the System-B, the plastic carriers that are normally an obstacle to retreatment can be efficiently removed using the technique described.

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