FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF 3D TRANSIENT LINEAR TEMPERATURE CHANGES IN THE PERIODONTAL LIGAMENT DURING THERMOPLASTICIZED GUTTA-PERCHA OBTURATION TECHNIQUES

ABSTRACT Objective: This study used finite element analysis to evaluate temperature changes in the periodontal ligament due to various thermoplasticized gutta-percha obturation techniques. Methods: Mandibular premolar models were created in SolidWorks software, simulating carrier-based obturation (CBO) and continuous wave of condensation with backfill obturation (CWC+BFO). Results: Upon analyzing seven models, the study revealed that the CWC+BFO models with the highest temperature settings (Models 4 and 7) recorded the highest maximum temperatures, nearing 127°C. In contrast, the CBO model (Model 1) exhibited the lowest maximum temperature at 47.835°C. These temperatures were primarily measured at the apical region. The duration exceeding 10°C above body temperature was highest in Models 4 and 7. CBO caused a brief 10.835°C rise for 0.43 s, deemed safe, while all CWC+BFO techniques exceeded 10°C above body temperature, lasting up to 14.40 s. Lower temperature settings, particularly during CWC, are recommended for safer CWC+BFO application. Conclusion: The CBO technique caused minimal temperature increase and appears safe. However, the CWC technique with BFO resulted in significantly higher temperatures, potentially harming the periodontal ligament. The authors recommend using lower temperatures with both techniques, especially with the CWC technique, and applying the BFO technique in multiple layers to minimize risks.