ATUAL APPROACH TO ENDODONTIC OBTURATION: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Root canal obturation is considered one of the most important and challenging steps in endodontic treatment. The success of this step is directly related to the elimination of microorganisms and the three-dimensional sealing of the root canals. The obturation process aims to completely fill the canals, preventing reinfection and promoting the healing of periapical tissues. This work aims to analyze the effectiveness and particularities of endodontic obturation techniques, highlighting current evidence on three-dimensional sealing and the clinical performance of each approach. This is a literature review based on scientific articles published in national and international databases. Studies were selected that address and compare the lateral condensation technique, Tagger's hybrid technique, vertical condensation, the single cone technique, the thermoplasticization technique, and the continuous wave technique. This research was based on 26 articles published between 2010 and 2025. Studies that compared endodontic obturation techniques, evaluating three-dimensional sealing, gutta-percha adaptation, and clinical performance were included. Duplicate articles, those prior to 2010, case reports, and studies without a defined methodology were excluded. The studies indicate that vertical condensation offers the best performance in three-dimensional sealing of root canals, providing excellent gutta-percha adaptation and apical sealing, which are fundamental for the success and durability of endodontic treatment. Although techniques such as Tagger's hybrid technique and the single cone technique with bioceramic cements present specific benefits, they still lack greater predictability and ease of retreatment. Therefore, vertical condensation is consolidated as the most efficient and safe method according to current evidence.