Root canal therapy aims to clean, shape and debride the entire pulp space followed by its three dimensional obturation with an inert root filling material. Anatomic variations can complicate the steps of identifying, negotiating and managing aberrant canals thereby affecting the prognosis of endodontic treatment. The C shaped configuration is one such variation that often poses a challenge in debridement and obturation. Recent advances in radiography, magnification, irrigation and obturation techniques aid effective management of C shaped root canals. This article presents the management of two cases with C shaped canals using CBCT imaging, ultrasonic irrigation and thermoplasticized obturation techniques.

Introduction: Complete sealing of the endodontic access cavity between appointments and after completion of therapy is a vital element in the successful outcome of endodontic treatment. A common concern in day to day dental practice of conservative dentistry and endodontics is coronal leakage. Such a complication often leads to the failure of endodontic treatment. The intention of this in vitro study was to assess the potentiality of three different temporary restorative materials (TRM) in preventing microleakage in the coronal aspect of the access cavity during inter-appointment period in the course of endodontic treatment. Methods: Zinc oxide eugenol, Intermediate restorative material (IRM) (Dentsply Sirona) and CAVIT were the three materials used in the study. A total of 60 premolar teeth extracted for orthodontic purposes were collected (n=20). Endodontic access cavity was prepared and restored with temporary restorative material in the respective groups. The teeth were stored under methylene blue stain and were sectioned to be observed under stereo microscope at 1,2,4,7,10 days. The coronal microleakage was scored and the outcome was interpreted using Mann Whitney U test. Results: On the 1st and 2nd day, every material showed significant statistical difference in microleakage scoring. Zinc oxide eugenol showed the maximum and excessive microleakage. But after the 4th day, the difference in microleakage scores did not show significant statistical variation. Conclusion: The outcome indicated that the mixing ratio of powder and liquid for zinc oxide eugenol plays a prime role in coronal microleakage. Nevertheless, none of the materials could prevent coronal microleakage for a long period. Therefore, it is better to undertake early replacement of access cavity with permanent restoration.