Introduction:
The maximum stress distribution in radicular dentin was assessed during root canal obturation while using the continuous wave compaction (CWC) and single cone (SC) techniques. Limited information regarding the stresses induced on root dentine during employing the SC technique is currently present in the literature.
Materials and Methods:
Two different root canal obturation techniques; the CWC and the SC obturation technique were simulated. Mathematical analysis of the stress distribution patterns and maximum von Mises (VM) stresses after load application to all tooth models were assessed at one, five millimeters from the root apices, at the apex and at the orifice by finite element analysis (FEA) using the Cosmos software package (Solid works, Dassault Systems, Cedex, France).
Results:
In stage one of the CWC the maximum stresses were expressed at the apex (6.3 MPa), while in the second stage the maximum stresses were at the orifice (29.3 MPa). In the SC technique, the maximum stresses were at the orifice (27.2 MPa).
Conclusion:
Gentle forces should be employed during compaction in the first stage of the CWC technique, due to the greater force concentration at the apex.
The stresses generated during obturation in both the CWC and SC techniques are less than that required to fracture root dentine.