Effects of Different Activation and Obturation Techniques on the Depth of Sealer Penetration into Lateral Canals

Aim:A successful outcome of root canal treatment is contingent upon establishing a three-dimensional seal that encompasses the obturation of lateral and accessory canals. This study investigated the impact of different activation strategies and obturation techniques on the depth of sealer penetration in simulated lateral canals. Materials and Method:3D-printed resin-based 120 maxillary central tooth models with standardized lateral canals at the middle level of the root. The prepared canals were categorized into twelve groups, including 10 samples in each group. AH Plus sealer was placed into the canals. EDDY, EndoActivator, and passive ultrasonic activation were applied to experimental groups, and one group did not undergo activation. Then, canals were filled with single cone, warm vertical compaction, and cold lateral compaction techniques. Periapical radiographs were taken using the parallel technique. Penetration depths were measured in ImageJ software. Two-way ANOVA and post hoc tests were used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05).Results:The post-hoc comparisons revealed that all activation techniques resulted in significantly deeper penetration compared to the control group. The ultrasonic activation demonstrated significantly greater penetration compared to the EndoActivator and EDDY groups (p < 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference between the EndoActivator and EDDY groups. It was observed no significant differences among the three canal filling techniques (p > 0.05). Conclusion:While the filling technique did not affect sealer penetration, sealer activation resulted in significantly increased penetration into lateral canals.