Root filling materials and techniques: bioceramics a new hope?

Instrumentation creates space for canal irrigation, disinfection and root filling. All of these have an impact on the method and size of instrumentation, depending on the philosophy of the dentist and the limitations and requirements set by the equipment used in each phase, especially in root filling. Optimal root filling has many requirements which have been difficult if not impossible to fulfill. Gutta‐percha has been and still is the core material of choice in root fillings, but it requires the use of a sealer in order to obtain better short term and long term seal. However, numerous studies on leakage after root filling have suggested that complete, permanent sealing of the canal against leakage from the oral cavity is usually not obtained. This review takes a critical look at presently available methods for canal instrumentation and filling, and challenges these as far less than optimal with regard to ease of operation, time and technical skills required, weakening of the root/tooth structure and quality of the seal. The authors discuss the above factors from the point of view of bioceramic materials in root filling. Is there a hope of a better future in root filling?