The effect of an additional application of sealer prior to backfilling in the Continuous Wave of Condensation technique

Abstract

An additional sealer application was investigated prior to backfilling with the Continuous Wave of Condensation (CWC). 105 Palatal roots were sectioned and prepared to a file size 40, 0.06 taper with Vortex Blue® files. Groups A, B and C had a single sealer application before while groups D, E and F, received a second application of dyed sealer prior to backfilling. Roots were sectioned at 2,3,4,6,7 and 8 mm from the root apex. The percentage of sealer and dentinal tubular penetration depth was calculated at each level. At each ascending level, the sealer percentage decreased for each experimental group while the number of outer third penetration depths increased when all groups were combined. An additional sealer application prior to backfilling had minimal effect on the percentage of sealer or outer third penetration depths and can be considered a clinical preference rather than an imperative step with the CWC technique.