Apical Leakage Evaluation of Two Different Coated Carrier Systems for Root Canal Obturation Using a Dye Penetration Evaluation Method

Aim: The carrier-based obturation is a reliable technique for sealing the endodontic space. The GuttaCore with a pink internal core of cross-linked gutta-percha, named GuttaCore Pink, has been recently introduced into the market. The aim of this in vitro study was to compare the quality of the apical seal of two-carrier-based system, Soft Core and the GuttaCore Pink, through the measurement of apical dye leakage. Materials and methods: Eighty-six extracted human teeth with single canals were used. Samples were shaped using ProTaper Universal rotary files up to a #30 apical size and randomly divided into four groups. Group SC (n = 40) was obturated with #30 Soft Core Obturators; Group GCP (n = 40) was obturated with #30 GuttaCore Pink obturators; Group CT+ (n = 3) and CT– (n = 3) left nonobturated used as positive and negative controls, respectively. The samples underwent a process of passive/active dye penetration and after a clearing procedure. The extent of the dye was measured under stereomicroscope. Results: The Mann-Whitney U test showed a statistically significant difference (p <0.05) between Soft Core and GuttaCore Pink in terms of apical dye leakage, both considering the mean and the maximum infiltration value with a greater infiltration rate for Soft Core. Conclusion: In vitro GuttaCore Pink showed less apical dye leakage than Soft Core. Clinical significance: The apical leakage of carrier-based obturation materials, observed in both GuttaCore Pink and Soft Core, may be considered material-dependent.