Is NaviTip a Superior Technique for Obturation in Primary Teeth? A Systematic Review

Introduction: Effective primary root canal obturation comprised steps that would lead to the ideal three-dimensional fill, least number of voids, and microleakage prevention. A novel system of obturation, NaviTip, was suggested to be better than traditional obturation techniques; however, current evidence was contradictory. Aim: This systematic review compared whether NaviTip was better compared to traditional procedures regarding obturation quality. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature search found comparative studies of NaviTip with standard obturation methods in primary teeth. Data were retrieved on NaviTip gauge size, obturation material, preparation method, irrigation technique, quality of obturation, void frequency, microleakage, clinical success, and radiographic results. Bias appraisal was done using the JBI checklist. Results: Ten studies were taken into account based on inclusion criteria comparing NaviTip with lentulo spiral, endodontic plugger, pressure syringes, and other traditional methods. NaviTip optimal filling rates varied from 47.8% to 93.5%. Those studies that reported superiority of NaviTip reported optimal filling rates up to 90% and void incidence of 15%. Yet, other studies reported higher void incidences (up to 26.25%) and overfilling complications (36%), questioning NaviTip’s overall consistency and superiority. Conclusion: NaviTip was not consistent in its results, with evidence for its ability to do better than traditional methods in terms of obtaining more ideal obturation and fewer voids, although there were inconsistencies between studies. Standard clinical trials are suggested.