Elevation in surface temperature of root canals obturated with different thermoplasticized gutta-percha obturation techniques : an in vitro study

Abstract EN

Background : Many studies have been conducted to evaluate the effect of using a hot material in the root canal and its potential for causing damage to the tooth supporting structure.

Materials and methods : thirty permanent premolars were obturated with thermo plasticized Gutta-Percha using three different obturation techniques : soft core, Thermafil, and obtura to evaluate the rise in temperature on the root surface using a multipurpose digital thermometer.

Results : temperature increases was significantly greater for Obtura versus Soft core (p < 0.003), not significant for Thermafil versus Soft core (p < 0.087), and Thermafil versus Obtura (p < 0.125).

Conclusions : temperatures rise on the root surface were below the critical level and, therefore, should not cause damage to the periodontal ligament.