In vitro comparison of three different lengths of remaining gutta-percha for establishment of apical seal after post-space preparation

Abstract

The quality of apical seal with regard to the length of remaining gutta-percha following post-space preparation is still controversial. The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare three different lengths of remaining gutta-percha for apical seal after post-space preparation. A total of 126 single-rooted extracted maxillary human anterior teeth with intact apices, straight roots, and without resorption were used in this study. The root canals were prepared and filled with gutta-percha and AH26 sealer. The post-space preparation was accomplished. Ninety-six teeth were randomly divided into three groups (4, 5 and 6 mm of gutta-percha was retained in group 1, 2 and 3, respectively).Thirty teeth were considered for the control groups in which 5 teeth served as positive and 5 teeth served as negative controls. The specimens were placed in India ink for 48 hours and then divided into two halves. The amount of leakage was observed and measured with a stereomicroscope at x 16 magnification and 0.1 mm accuracy. The results showed that there were significant differences among the three experimental groups (P < 0.05). The best apical seal after post-space preparation was associated with the maximum length of remaining gutta-percha in the apical portion of the treated teeth.

Identifying and Reducing Risks for Potential Fractures in Endodontically Treated Teeth

“…To avoid violation of the apical seal, at least 4-5 mm of apical gutta-percha should be retained (71,72). A recent study of 126 extracted single-rooted maxillary anterior teeth with intact apices reported that the optimum apical seal after post-space preparation was associated with 6 mm of remaining guttapercha (73). Ideally, the post core should be placed immediately after obturation to reduce the effects of canal contamination resulting from a leaking interim post and artificial crown.…”

Effect of different mixing methods on the bacterial microleakage of white Portland cement and white Mineral Trioxide Aggregate

“…The length of the root canal, MAF size, and preparation of coronal 1/3 of the canal were selected the same. The thickness of the retrofill materials, which is one of the most effective factors, 3 was selected the same for all the samples. …”

“…The presence of microleakage is one of the most important causes for treatment failures. 1-3 Root-end filling materials are applied to prevent egress of microorganisms and their by-products into periradicular tissue. 4 Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) is widely used in the field of endodontics.…”

Comparing the Coronal Seal of Different Thicknesses of MTA with Gutta-Percha after Post Space Preparation

“…Endodontically treated teeth should be properly restored to replace coronal structures, restore function, and prevent reinfections [ 2 ]. In the majority of cases, endodontically treated teeth have inadequate remaining structure and require post placement to increase the retention of the coronal restoration [ 3 ]. In addition, the post protects the apical seal against bacterial contamination due to coronal leakage [ 4 ].…”

“…To prepare the post space, some obturation material should be removed from the root canal, which affects the apical seal [ 2 ]. The integrity of the apical seal depends on the amount of obturation material remaining within the root canal [ 3 , 5 – 7 ]. Studies have shown that in teeth, in which less than 3 mm of gutta-percha has remained after post space preparation, there is a higher incidence of lesions compared to greater gutta-percha lengths and the best coronal seal is achieved when at least 6 mm of gutta-percha remains in the root canal [ 3 , 7 ].…”