Comparison of Hand-Instrumented, Heated Gutta-Percha and Engine-Driven, Cold Gutta-Percha Endodontic Techniques:

An in vitro study compared two gutta-percha obturation techniques of the mandibular first molar in dogs. The mandibular first molars were instrumented and obturated using either K-files and the SuccessFil vertical compaction technique or rotary instruments and the Simplifill/gutta-percha master cone technique. Instrumentation and obturation times were recorded for each tooth. Radiographs were used for evaluation of overall appearance of the final fill. A modified apical dye leakage technique was used to evaluate the ability of each method to provide an adequate barrier to apical leakage. The endodontic technique utilizing rotary instruments and Simplifill/gutta-percha master cone required less time and provided a better radiographic appearance to the endodontic fill. In addition, there was no apical dye leakage associated with this technique compared with a 44% leakage incidence in teeth treated with K-file instrumentation and SuccessFil.