A dental gutta percha obturation system works by filling and sealing the root canals of a tooth after the infected or damaged pulp has been removed during a root canal procedure. This process is crucial to prevent the re-entry of bacteria and infection into the treated tooth, allowing the tooth to be saved rather than extracted.
Cleaning and Shaping the Root Canals
Before gutta percha obturation, the dentist or endodontist first removes the infected or damaged pulp tissue from the tooth's root canals.
The root canals are then cleaned and shaped using specialized instruments to remove any debris, bacteria, and tissue remnants. The goal is to create a smooth and properly tapered canal space for the gutta-percha to fill.
Application of Endodontic Sealer
An endodontic sealer, which is a biocompatible adhesive material, is applied to the walls of the cleaned root canals. This sealer helps to create a hermetic seal and ensures that there are no gaps or voids in the obturation.
Placement of Gutta Percha
Gutta-percha, a rubber-like material derived from the sap of the Palaquium gutta tree, is used to fill the prepared root canals. Gutta-percha comes in pre-cut or pre-rolled cones of various sizes to match the dimensions of different teeth and canals. It is often heated or softened to make it more pliable.
Compaction and Sealing
Specialized instruments called heated pluggers or compactors are used to compact the gutta percha within the root canals. The heat softens the gutta-percha, allowing it to adapt to the shape of the canals and fill any irregularities. As it cools and solidifies, it forms a tight seal against the canal walls. This compaction process ensures that there are no spaces or gaps where bacteria could re-enter and cause reinfection.
Radiographic Verification
X-rays are taken to verify the quality of the gutta percha obturation. These images allow the dentist or endodontist to ensure that the gutta-percha fills the canal adequately and that there are no voids or gaps.
Coronal Seal
After the root canals are successfully obturated with gutta-percha, the access cavity created at the beginning of the procedure (usually in the crown of the tooth) is sealed with a permanent filling material, such as a dental composite. The coronal seal prevents any bacteria from entering through the top of the tooth.
In summary, a dental gutta percha obturation system works by filling the cleaned and shaped root canals with gutta-percha material, ensuring a hermetic seal against the canal walls. This seals off the inner space of the tooth, preventing further infection and allowing the tooth to function normally without the need for extraction. The combination of gutta-percha and an effective obturation technique is essential for the long-term success of root canal therapy.
For more information about the dental gutta percha obturation system, you can click to browse CICADA’s product range or get in touch with us.
