THERMAFIL (THERMOPLASTICISED OBTURATION )

One of the methods of obturation using warmed gutta-percha is the Thermafil endodontic obturator device (Dentsply Maillefer, Switzerland). Thermafil obturators are made of plastic cores coated with alpha-phase gutta-percha . This form of gutta-percha is considered to have better flow characteristics when molten than beta-phase gutta-percha, from which conventional gutta-percha cones are made. After heating in a thermafill heater, the gutta-percha surrounding the Thermafil carrier becomes plasticized, and the obturator is inserted into the prepared canal. The carrier remains in the root canal as a part of the obturation.

                                                   REF:JOE 28,2002