D Apical Cork – Part 1

systems possess can serve both as havens for bacterial colonization and portals for the extension of endodontic disease. Figure 1 is a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) rendering of a lateral lesion of endodontic origin. As usual, the portal of exit from this diseased pulpal system is found in the center of the lesion. Many have documented the vast array of anatomical possibilities of pulpal systems, including the frequency of apical ramifications.1-2 Micro CT reconstruction is one way to visualize the randomness and beauty of pulpal systems. The micro CTs in Figures 2A-2D demonstrate varying apical pulpal anatomy of maxillary premolars.3 These illustrations do not depict special, unique, or rare pulpal anatomy. The rarity is the single, uncomplicated pulpal system. Clinical success is influenced by the capacity to three-dimensionally disinfect and seal these sophisticated internal caverns and terminations.4-6 Many recent technological advances facilitate high levels of shaping and disinfection of root canal systems. This article is the first in a series that examines the CORK system of obturation. The CORK technique comprehensively warms and softens apical gutta percha for simultaneous compaction and three-dimensional molding. Shown in Figure 3, the CORK delivery device consists of a thin silver carrier that partially wraps and extends the entire length of various apical shapes of gutta percha. This design provides several technological advantages. First, heat is transferred to all levels of the gutta percha directly through the silver. This overcomes gutta percha’s thermomechanical inability to transfer temperature more than a few millimeters.7-9 A precise and relatively uniform temperature is transferred throughout the apical gutta percha, 3D Apical Cork – Part 1