Comparative study of different factors influencing the optimal obturation of primary teeth with or without cotton compression

Background: The quality of the obturation plays a significant role in the success of endodontic treatment. The ultimate goal of endodontic obturation is to create a fluid-tight seal along the length of the root canal system from the coronal opening to the apical termination. Aim: To evaluate factors affecting an optimal obturation during different obturating technique with or without cotton compression in primary teeth. Materials and methods: A total of 48 primary 2nd molar requiring obturation after standard BMP were included, and were divided into 4 groups of 12 each. Group 1- incremental technique, Group 2-lentulo spiral technique, Group 3-mechanical syringe without cotton compression, Group 4- mechanical syringe with cotton compression. The obturation quality and the presence of voids was evaluated using the modified Coll and Sadrian criteria. All the readings were entered and statistically analysed. Results: Among the 4 groups lentulospiral and mechanical syringe with cotton compression showed maximum optimally filled canals and least number of voids. Maximum number of voids and underfilled canals were seen with mechanical syringe without cotton compression. Conclusion: Lentulo spiral & mechanical syringe with cotton compression showed optimal obturation in terms of extent of obturation and absence of voids when compared to incremental & mechanical syringe without cotton compression.