The International Tinnitus Journal

Volumetric Analysis of Root Canal Obturation Techniques Using CBCT: Potential Implications for Tinnitus and Systemic Health.

Ajay Chhabra, Priyanka Yadav, Saravana Prathap, Ramya, Himani Mehra, Sona J.Parvathy

Aim: This study was designed to assess the volumetric analysis of three different obturation techniques namely lateral condensation technique, single cone technique, and thermoplasticized technique, using three-dimensional Cone Beam Computed Tomography. Background: Successful root canal treatment requires three-dimensional obturation of the root canal system providing a fluid-tight seal. Proper obturation also minimizes the risk of systemic complications, including low-grade infections, which may have implications for tinnitus by influencing inflammatory or neural pathways. This underscores the broader significance of volumetric analysis in understanding the potential systemic impacts of dental health. Materials and Methods: Eighty-four single-rooted premolar teeth with single canals were selected. The working length was standardized at 13 mm, of which 4.3 mm each of the coronal, middle, and apical segments were taken into consideration. The samples were grouped into three groups Group A hand files, Group B- Hyflex EDM file system, and Group C- Neoendo neohybrid file system of 28 samples each based on the type of canal instrumentation. All specimens were scanned using CBCT after instrumentation of the root canals. It was further subgrouped into A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, and C2 of 14 samples each based on different obturation techniques—lateral condensation technique, Single cone technique, and Thermoplasticized technique. To determine the POV of gutta-percha, a second CBCT was performed. Statistical Analysis: Using SPSS version 17.0 software, statistical analysis was performed. The mean difference was calculated by analysis of Variance (ANOVA). A multiple comparison Turkey post-hoc test was performed to find out the exact significance among groups after obturation. The significant value (P-value) was set for 0.05, and any value equal to or less than was considered significant. Results: Voids were present in all six subgroups. The highest POV was seen with subgroup B2 and the lowest with subgroup C1. The lateral condensation technique showed intermediate results. These findings may hold relevance for interdisciplinary research, particularly in exploring the role of dental procedures in systemic conditions such as tinnitus, where infection control and sealing integrity could influence patient outcomes.