64 multi-rooted teeth (198 canals) were tested in vitro to evaluate the apical seal produced by the single cone filling and lateral condensation with sealer and without sealer. The obturated teeth were immersed in India ink, decalcified, and cleared. The degree of ink penetrated into the canal provided a measure of the apical seal. The results were as follows: 1. The lateral condensation with sealer provided statically less apical leakage than the other obturating techniques used in this study. 2. The single cone filling provided good apical sealing. 3. The lateral condensation without sealer provided most apical leakage than any other techniques used in this study. 4. The degree of apical leakage was not related to the visual appearence of the adaptation of the gutta percha filling in cleared teeth.