A review of obturating materials and obturation techniques used in current endodontic therapy with special reference to the Western Cape

Abstract

A review of current root canal obturating materials and obturation techniques was undertaken. This was prompted by the wide variety of the materials and techniques currently being used in the Western Cape. A questionnaire was circulated to 320 members of the Cape (Western) Branch of the D.A.S.A. A viable return of 54,43% was received and this data was studied to determine the pattern of usage of the different materials and techniques in the sample area. Gutta- percha proved to be the mo~t popular obturating material (64,4X) and the gutta-percha lateral condensation technique was indicated by 32,7% of the respondents as being used by them. The cement sealer employed by most respondents was Endométhasone .(38,2%), followed by Riebler's paste (17,3%) and zinc oxide-eugenol (12,5%). This is contrary to the current teaching at the Dental Faculty of the University of Stellenbosch. An extensive review of the literature on obturating mater ials and techniques was undertaken with consideration to the composition and the physical, chemical and sealing properties of the materials being gi ven. Adverse tissue reacti ons caused by the different materials were reviewed as were any peculiarities of the root canal obturation technique. The expected success or failure rates of relevant techniques were considered as well as their advantages and disadvantages. In conclusion certain recommendations as to viable changes to the present endodontic curriculum of the Dental Faculty, University of Stellenbosch are made, based on information revealed by this study.