To evaluate the marginal seal of temporary restorations in endodontically-treated teeth by comparing three restorative materials and two techniques of root canal filling.
Materials and method. Canal shaping was completed on 72 single-root teeth using a ProTaper system and root filling by lateral or vertical condensation. 8 teeth have been positively or negatively controlled. Citodur, glass ionomer or zinc oxide eugenol were inserted into the access cavity. All teeth were immersed for 9 days in India ink, then cleared and evaluated for dye penetration.
Results. All groups of temporary restorations showed no significantly different marginal dye penetration. The glass ionomer cement presented the highest penetration.
Conclusions. The restorative materials used could not stop dye penetration in the access cavity. They are not reliable for avoiding microleakage in root-filled teeth in case of long-term fillings.