This in vitro dye leakage study examined the influence of apical root resection and reverse amalgam fillings on the apical seal of root canals obturated with Thermafil. Fifty human canine teeth were instrumented and obturated with either laterally condensed gutta-percha or Thermafil using Roth's zinc oxide-eugenol Type I regular sealer. After 24 h, one of the following additional procedures was performed on 30 of the teeth: 2-mm apical resection, 4-mm apical resection, and 2-mm apical resection plus reverse amalgam filling 2 mm in depth and diameter. The external root surfaces were coated with enamel paint and the teeth were exposed to 1% methylene blue dye at 37 degrees C for 2 wk. The roots were split longitudinally and the depth of linear dye penetration was measured through a stereozoom microscope. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in the linear dye penetration among the various groups of teeth.