Qualitative evaluation of two endodontic obturation techniques: tapered single-cone method versus warm vertical condensation and injection system An in vitro study

Forty two single-rooted teeth, prepared with the Mtwo system, were divided into three groups based on the filling method: control, Single-cone (n = 20) (Mtwo gutta-percha single-cone tapered according to the diameter, length and conicity of the preparation) and Combined system (n = 20) (BeeFill 2in1). The parameters studied were apical leakage, gutta-percha adjustment, number of voids, presence/absence of sealer, root canal morphology, residual fragments, and filling of lateral/accessory canals. A dye penetration test was carried out (methylene blue). The teeth were embedded in resin, cut transversally and observed. The data were analyzed with non-parametric Mann-Whitney and Spearman tests. Comparative tests between the two groups showed that the Combined system was superior in terms of apical leakage (P < 0.01), gutta-percha adjustment (P < 0.05) and filling of lateral/accessory canals (P < 0.05). There were statistically significant correlations between master cone adjustment and root canal morphology (P < 0.01) in the Single-cone group. In the Combined system group, a relation was observed between the voids and root canal morphology (P < 0.05) and between voids and residual fragments (P < 0.05). The quality of obturation with warm gutta-percha was better than that of the tapered single-cone technique. Root canal morphology influences gutta-percha adjustment. Residual fragments on the root canal reduce sealing ability.