AN IN-VITRO EVALUATION OF SEALER PLACEMENT METHODS

Successful root canal therapy is dependent upon obturating the root ca nal system. A critical component of the filling procedure is sealer pl acement. This in vitro study investigated the efficacy of six methods of sealer placement using clear plastic blocks with simulated curved c anals instrumented to the apex using a step-back technique. After seal er placement and setting, the blocks were cross-sectioned at 2 mm inte rvals from mid-canal to apex. The sections were evaluated with a stere o operating microscope at x6 magnification for placement of an evenly distributed layer of sealer around the prepared canal walls. The lentu lo spiral and the Max-i-Probe Delivery System were the most effective means of sealer placement, followed by ultrasonic and sonic files. The least effective methods were the paper point and the K file.