Volumetric analysis of root fillings using spiral computed tomography: an in vitro study

AIM: To analyse volumetrically using spiral computed tomography (SCT) the efficacy of various techniques to fill root canals. METHODOLOGY: Root canals in 40 maxillary central incisors were instrumented with K-files to size 60 and the volume of the canal measured using SCT. The teeth were divided into four groups of 10 each and root filled by lateral compaction, Thermafil, Obtura II and System B techniques, respectively. AH plus was used as sealer with all techniques. The filled volume in each canal was measured using SCT and the percentage of obturated volume (POV) was calculated. The data were statistically analysed using Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U-test. RESULTS: The four groups were comparable in canal volume. The overall POV was 80.4%, 93.3%, 84.8% and 93.7% for lateral compaction, Thermafil, Obtura II and System B, respectively (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The greatest POV was obtained with System B and Thermafil. Voids were seen in all root fillings.