Quality of cold and warm gutta-percha fillings in oval canals in mandibular premolars

Aim The aim of this study was to determine the quality of cold and warm gut ta-percha fillings in oval canals. Methodology Two groups of mandibular premolars with oval canals were select ed after bucco-lingual and mesio-distal radiographs indicated an internal l ong: short diameter of greater than or equal to1.6 at a level 5 mm from the apex. After instrumentation they were obturated, respectively, by cold lat eral compaction of gutta-percha cones (cold GP) and vertical compaction of warm gutta-percha (warm GP). Leakage along apical root fillings was measure d using a fluid transport model. After the leakage test. horizontal section s were cut 2 and 4 mm from the apex. The area of the canal and gutta-percha in cross-sections was measured using an image analysis program. The qualit y of root fillings was evaluated by calculating the percentage of gutta-per cha-filled canal area (PGP). Results No significant difference in leakage was found between the two grou ps (P = 0.570). The warm GP group produced significantly higher PGPs than t he cold GP group 4 mm from the apex only (P = 0.522 at 2 nun; P = 0.000 at 4 mm). Conclusions The percentage of gutta-percha-filled canal area using warm GP was greater than that of the cold GP in oval canals.