Practice abstract
British Dental Journal 197, 667 - 672 (2004)
Published online: 11 December 2004 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.4811855
Verifiable CPD Paper:
Endodontics: Part 8 Filling the root canal system
P Carrotte1
- No matter how well the obturation of the root canals is performed, success will be dependant upon the initial cleaning and debridement of the entire root canal system.
- Cold lateral compaction of a master gutta percha point and accessory points remains the norm against which other obturation methods are assessed.
- The gold standard of obturation is the warm vertical compaction of gutta percha with a heated plugger.
- Research suggests that the coronal seal, achieved with a layer of glass ionomer cement on the floor of the pulp chamber, may be more important than the apical seal.
Endodontics
- The modern concept of root canal treatment
- Diagnosis and treatment planning
- Treatment of endodontic emergencies
- Morphology of the root canal system
- Basic instruments and materials for root canal treatment
- Rubber dam and access cavities
- Preparing the root canal
- Filling the root canal system
- Calcium hydroxide, root resorption, endo-perio lesions
- Endodontic treatment for children
- Surgical endodontics
- Endodontic problems
Abstract
The purpose of the obturation phase of a root filling is two-fold; to prevent microorganisms from re-entering the root canal system, and to isolate any microorganisms that may remain within the tooth from nutrients in tissue fluids. The seal at the apical end of the root canal is achieved by a well-fitting gutta-percha master point, and accessory points, although heated techniques may result in a better seal. The seal at the coronal end is achieved by the application of a layer of resin-modified glass ionomer cement as accessory canals may lead from the floor of the pulp chamber to the furcation area. It must always be remembered that success will only be achieved if the root canal system has been as thoroughly debrided as possible of infected material.
- Clinical Lecturer, Department of Adult Dental Care, Glasgow Dental Hospital and School, 378 Sauchiehall Street, Glasgow G2 3JZ
Correspondence to: P Carrotte1 e-mail: p.carrotte@dental.gla.ac.uk