Advances in Root Canal Obturation: Integration of Innovative Filling Materials and Contemporary Techniques

Endodontics has seen significant advancements in recent years, especially due to the development of next-generation root canal filling materials and improved obturation techniques. While traditional gutta-percha-based systems are still commonly used, they have some limitations in sealing efficiency, antimicrobial activity, and adaptability to the complex internal structures of root canals. These challenges have led to the introduction of innovative materials, such as hydraulic calcium silicate sealers, modified resin-based or nano-enhanced formulations, which offer better biocompatibility, enhanced physico-chemical properties, and antibacterial effectiveness. At the same time, modern obturation techniques that utilize single cone obturation, thermoplastic techniques, or injectable systems have enhanced the precision and effectiveness of root canal fillings. This research topic aims to highlight the ongoing evolution in root canal obturation by integrating advancements in material science with cutting-edge clinical methodologies.

The primary objective of this Research Topic is to address the clinical limitations of current root canal obturation materials and techniques, while also promoting the integration of innovative biomaterials and methods. A significant focus will be on developing filling materials that not only provide mechanical durability and effective sealing but also possess active biological properties, such as antimicrobial effects and the potential for tissue healing.

We will pay special attention to bioactive components that can enhance treatment outcomes by improving disinfection, sealing, and long-term stability. Through both experimental and clinical perspectives, this collection seeks to provide a comprehensive view of how innovation is transforming root canal therapy and ultimately enhancing patient care and long-term success rates.

This Research Topic welcomes submissions exploring all aspects of innovation in root canal obturation. We invite original research, reviews, mini-reviews, and perspectives focused on:

· Development and optimization of new obturation materials, including bioceramics, nanomaterials, and multifunctional sealers.
· Antimicrobial and sealing performance of advanced filling materials in vitro and in vivo.
· Comparative analysis of traditional and emerging obturation techniques.
· Integration of digital tools (e.g. AI, 3D imaging) in the planning and evaluation of root canal fillings.
· Clinical trials and case studies assessing material behavior and patient outcomes.

Authors are encouraged to submit work that advances understanding of material–tissue interactions, enhances clinical efficacy, and bridges laboratory findings with practical endodontic applications.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Root canal obturation, Bioceramic sealers, Resin-based sealers, Hydraulic calcium silicate sealers, Gutta-percha, Thermoplastic obturation, Single cone technique, Carrier-based obturation systems, Lateral condensation technique, Vertical compaction techni

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.