In vitro evaluation of root canal obturation according AAE´s criteria

Clinically, one of the most used parameter to evaluate the root canal treatment is the radiography. So, well established criteria are essential to the dentist. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate, in vitro, the quality of root canal obturation using AAExs criteria. Methods: 171 extracted single-rooted human teeth were prepared and obturated by cold lateral condensation technique. Then, all specimens were radiographed in frontal and lateral views. Firstly, all radiographs were evaluated by 12 endodontists, individually. The quality of the obturation was classified in satisfactory, questionable and non-satisfactory. After 30 days, the same professionals evaluated the lateral view images of the same teeth, using the same criteria. Results: The results showed that all obturations evaluated as non-satisfactory in frontal view were non-satisfactory in lateral view, either. Besides, statistical analysis showed significant differences between the professional's evaluation (p<0,05). Conclusion: AAExs criteria used as parameter to evaluate the root canal obturation were not suitable in this in vitro test.