Does the Mixing Method of AH Plus Jet Affect its Physicochemical and Mechanical Properties?

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether the mixing method of AH Plus Jet sealer affects its physicochemical and mechanical properties.

METHODS

The properties of AH Plus Jet sealer were analyzed when mixed using either the Auto Mix Tip or manual mixing. The evaluated properties included radiopacity (n = 5), initial and final setting times (n = 5), flow (n = 5), and solubility (n = 3), following specifications outlined in ISO 6876/2012 and ADA Nº 57/2000. pH levels were measured at intervals of 3, 24, 72, and 168 hours (n = 10). The push-out bond strength test was conducted using a universal testing machine and using bovine teeth (n = 30). Failure modes were analyzed with stereomicroscopy. Porosity was evaluated under micro-CT (n = 5), and scanning electron microscopy was also performed (n = 5). One-way analysis of variance and Tukey, unpaired t-tests, or Mann-Whitney tests were used with a significance level of 5%.

RESULTS

The Auto Mix exhibited a radiopacity value of 12.11 mmAl, whereas manual mixing resulted in 12.55 mmAl (P > .05). For initial and final setting times, Auto Mix showed 901 minutes and 1779 minutes, respectively, while manual mixing recorded values of 631 minutes and 1504 minutes (P < .05). In terms of flow, Auto Mix demonstrated higher values (25.26 mm) than manual mixing (21.71 mm) (P < .05). No statistical differences were observed between the two methods for solubility and pH (P > .05). Manual mixing presented a higher bond strength value (14.52 MPa) than Auto Mix (9.81 MPa) (P < .05). The mixed failure mode was the most frequent outcome for both methods. The highest porosity was observed for Auto Mix (P < .05). Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that manual mixing resulted in a smoother surface with fewer pores and smaller, more evenly distributed agglomerates compared to automatic mixing.

CONCLUSION

The mixing method employed for AH Plus Jet sealer influences some physicochemical and mechanical properties of the material.

Comparative evaluation of push-out bond strength and mode of failure of three different obturating materials: An in vitro study

Aim

This research aimed to assess the push-out bond strength (PBS) to dentin of three distinct obturation materials inside the root canal and identify the failure mechanism.

Materials and Methods

The research used 30 undamaged human mandibular premolars. The specimens were randomly assigned to three groups, each employing a different sealer (n = 10). Group 1 used AH Plus sealer, Group 2 used GuttaFlow-2 sealer, and Group 3 used bioceramic sealer (CeraSeal). The obturation procedure was performed utilizing the single-cone method with gutta-percha. The specimens were divided into sections and loaded using a universal testing machine. Following PBS testing, every sample underwent a stereomicroscope examination, and the specific failure mechanism was documented.

Results

The average PBS was greatest for AH Plus, followed by CeraSeal and Guttaflow-2. Notable disparities existed between the coronal and apical levels.

Conclusion

AH Plus exhibited superior PBS qualities to root dentin compared to other sealers.

Assessment of different irrigation techniques on the penetration depth of different sealers into dentinal tubules by confocal laser scanning microscope: An in vitro comparative study

Background

The effective disinfection of the entire root canal system aids in the penetration of irrigants into the dentinal tubules further improving sealer penetration and achieving a three-dimensional seal in endodontically treated teeth. Various final irrigation techniques can be employed to achieve this goal. Therefore, this study intended to assess and compare the efficacy of three final irrigation techniques on the depth of penetration of two root canal sealers into dentinal tubules using confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM).

Methods

Forty-eight single-rooted mandibular premolars were selected and decoronated to a length of 12 mm. All the samples were prepared using ProTaper Gold rotary files and divided into three groups: Group 1 - Conventional syringe irrigation (CSI), Group 2 - passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI), and Group 3 - Pro-agitator tip system (PATS). Each group was divided into two subgroups: Subgroup A - AH Plus and Subgroup B - GuttaFlow Bioseal (GFB). Then, sealers were mixed with 0.1% rhodamine B dye and the samples were obturated. All the samples were sectioned at 2 mm and 5 mm from the apex and visualized under confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) (10×) for maximum mean penetration depth and percentage of sealer penetration. Statistical analysis was done using the independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance test, followed by Tukey's Post hoc analysis.

Results

PUI performed better in the apical third, whereas PUI and PATS showed comparable results in the middle third for both depth and percentage of sealer penetration. Among the two sealers, GFB performed better than AH Plus in both the apical and middle third. These values were statistically significant. (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Final irrigation activation with PUI or PATS can significantly improve sealer penetration. The average depth of penetration of GFB both at the middle and apical third of the root was significantly superior to AH Plus.

The Effect of Adding Various Antibiotics on the Push-out Bond Strength of a Resin-based Sealer: An In Vitro Study

AIM

This study aimed to compare the bond strength of AH Plus sealer to root canal dentin when used with or without various antibiotics including amoxicillin, clindamycin, and triple antibiotic mixture (TAM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 80 single-rooted extracted human teeth were instrumented and obturated with gutta-percha and four different sealer-antibiotic combinations (n = 20). Group I: AH Plus without any antibiotics, Group II: AH Plus with amoxicillin, Group III: AH Plus with clindamycin, and Group IV: AH Plus with TAM. After seven days, the roots were sectioned perpendicular to their long axis and 1 mm thick slices were obtained from the midroots. The specimens were subjected to a push-out bond strength test and failure modes were also evaluated. Data was analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's post hoc tests.

RESULTS

Group IV had significantly higher bond strength compared to other groups (p ≤ 0.05). No significant differences were found between other groups. While the sealer-antibiotic groups predominantly showed cohesive failure modes, the control group displayed both cohesive and mixed failure modes.

CONCLUSION

Within the limitations of this study, the addition of TAM increased the push-out bond strength of AH Plus.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Amoxicillin, clindamycin, or TAM can be added to AH Plus for increased antibacterial efficacy without concern about their effects on the bond strength of the sealer. How to cite this article: Adl A, Shojaei NS, Ranjbar N. The Effect of Adding Various Antibiotics on the Push-out Bond Strength of a Resin-based Sealer: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(3):231-235.

Epoxy resin-based root canal sealers: An integrative literature review

The correct obturation of the root canal system achieved by means of a core and a cement is essential for the success of endodontic treatment. There are several root canal cements (RCCs) on the market; however, because of their excellent characteristics, epoxy resin-based sealers (ERBSs) have been widely used. The main aim of this review was to analyze and integrate the available information on different ERBSs. An electronic search was performed in the PubMed and Scopus databases, using "epoxy resin" AND "root canal treatment", and "epoxy resin" AND "endodontics" as search terms. In general, ERBSs have good flow properties, film thickness, solubility, dimensional stability, sealing capacity, and radiopacity. They are also able to adhere to dentin while exhibiting low toxicity and some antibacterial effects. However, their main disadvantage is the lack of bioactivity and biomineralization capability. A large number of ERBSs are available on the market, and AH Plus keeps being the gold standard RCC. Yet, information on many of them is limited or non-existent, which could be due to the fact that some of them are relatively new. The latter emphasizes the need for relevant research on the physicochemical and biological properties of some ERBSs, with the aim of supporting their clinical use with sufficient evidence via prospective and long-term studies.

Evaluation of Sealer Remnants Using a Bioceramic Sealer Single-cone Technique after Post Space Preparation and its Influence on the Adhesion of Fibre Posts in vitro

OBJECTIVE

To compare calcium silicate-based endodontic sealer and epoxy resin-based sealer remnants on root canal walls after post space preparation and their influence on the bond strength of fibre posts fixed with a dual-cured resin cement.

METHODS

Thirty-six extracted single-root mandibular premolars were instrumented and divided randomly into two equal groups with different endodontic sealers. iRoot SP (Innovative BioCeramix, Vancouver, Canada) was employed in the experimental group and AH Plus (Dentsply Sirona, Charlotte, NC, USA) was used in the control group. Sealer remnants were observed under an endodontic microscope after root canal therapy and post space preparation. Fibre posts were fixed with dual-cured resin cement. Specimens were taken at each third of the post space. The push-out bond strength was measured using a universal testing machine and fracture modes were assessed. Statistical analysis was performed using an independent samples t test and one-way analysis of variance.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in bond strength of fibre posts between the control and experimental group (P > 0.05); however, sealer remnants were observed in 38.9% of the samples treated with iRoot SP and none of the samples treated with AH Plus. The major fracture mode in samples treated with iRoot SP was adhesive failure between the resin cement and the post, and no adhesive failure between the resin cement and dentine occurred at the site of the sealer remnant. The presence of iRoot SP remnants on the root canal walls after post space preparation did not interfere with bonding.

CONCLUSION

iRoot SP is a viable option for root canal obturation before fibre post cementation.

Comparative evaluation of the effect of calcium silicate and epoxy resinbased root canal sealers on postoperative pain in patients with primary endodontic lesion: A randomized clinical study

Introduction

This study's objective was to assess and compare postoperative pain response between bioceramic sealer (Nishika BG) and epoxy resin based (AH Plus) in patients with primary endodontic lesion at time interval of 24 h, 48 h, and 7 days using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Materials and Methods

The study included 40 individuals with necrotic pulp and apical periodontitis. Calcium hydroxide was administered as the intracanal medication during the two-visit endodontic therapy. They were subsequently allocated randomly to either the AH Plus root canal sealer or the Nishika Canal Sealer BG, with a total of 20 participants in each group. Patients were told to use a VAS to rate their postoperative pain severity as none, minimal, moderate, or severe after 24 h, 48 h, and 7 days following obturation using the appropriate sealers.

Results

Nishika Canal Sealer BG (CS-BG) has a lower pain score as compared to the AH Plus group at 24-h time point. VAS ratings for both the groups decreased over time. According to the intergroup analysis, there was a significant difference in postoperative pain at the 24 h (P = 0.022), but not at the 48 h or 7 days (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Although bioceramic sealer (Nishika Canal Sealer BG) resulted in significantly lower levels of pain as compared to epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus) at 24-h interval, there was no significant difference of postoperative pain at 48-h interval and 7-day period.

Biodentine Inhibits the Initial Microbial Adhesion of Oral Microbiota In Vivo

This study aimed to evaluate the in vivo initial microbial adhesion of oral microorganisms on the biomaterial Biodentine compared to MTA and AH Plus. Cylindrical samples of the materials were prepared, and dentin slabs served as a control. An individual intraoral lower jaw splint served as a carrier for the samples and was worn by six volunteers. The specimens were worn for 120 min. Adherent bacteria were quantified by determining the colony-forming units (CFUs), while the visualization and quantification of total adherent microorganisms were facilitated by using DAPI and live/dead staining combined with fluorescence microscopy. Bovine dentin had a significantly higher number of aerobic CFUs compared to Biodentine (p = 0.017) and MTA (p = 0.013). The lowest amounts of DAPI-stained adherent microorganisms were quantified for Biodentine (15% ± 9%) and the control (18% ± 9%), while MTA showed the highest counts of initially adherent microorganisms (38% ± 10%). Significant differences were found for MTA and Biodentine (p = 0.004) as well as for MTA and the control (p = 0.021) and for AH Plus and the control (p = 0.025). Biodentine inhibited microbial adherence, thereby yielding an antimicrobial effectivity similar to that of MTA.

Influence of 2% chlorhexidine on the dislodgement resistance of AH plus, bioroot RCS, and GuttaFlow 2 sealer to dentin and sealer-dentin interface

Aim

To find out the effects of 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) gel intracanal medicament on the dislodgement resistance of AH Plus, BioRoot RCS, and GuttaFlow 2 Sealer to dentin and on sealer-dentin interface.

Materials and Methods

Sixty single-rooted maxillary canine were taken and divided into two groups based on the treatment: Group 1 - control group (no medicament) (n = 30) and Group 2 - (GLUCO-CHeX 2% Gel) (n = 30). Further, the groups were divided according to the sealer used, namely (A) AH Plus sealer, (B) BioRoot RCS Sealer, and (c) Gutta Flow 2 sealer. Teeth were prepared using rotary instrumentation of file size 35 with a taper of 0.06 and obturation was done. 1 mm thick sections were obtained from the roots. All the sections were checked for push out bond strength using Universal testing machine and mode of failure using stereomicroscope. Some samples were evaluated for sealer-dentin interface using field emission scanning electron microscope.

Results

AH Plus showed higher bond strength compared to BioRoot RCS and GuttaFlow 2. There was no significant difference in the push out bond strength with or without the prior use of 2% CHX medicament (P > 0.05) and also CHX did not affect the mode of failure. However, sealer-dentin interface gap was increased with application of medicament.

Conclusion

Dislodgement resistance of AH Plus sealer is significantly higher than BioRoot RCS and GuttaFlow 2 sealer. The application of 2% CHX intracanal medicament before root canal obturation did not significantly affect the dislodgement resistance of the three tested sealers. 2% CHX medicament did not affect the failure mode of the sealers. Sealer-dentin interface is affected by the use of 2% CHX gel medicament.

The Effect of Primary Root Canal Treatment on Dentinal Tubule Penetration of Calcium Silicate-based Sealers during Endodontic Retreatment

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of previous root canal treatment on dentinal tubule penetration of calcium silicate-based sealers during endodontic retreatment and to compare 2 different (commonly used and modified) tubule penetration depth measurement techniques.

METHODS

The crowns of mandibular premolar teeth were removed, and root canals were prepared (ProTaper Universal; Dentsply Sirona, York, PA) and obturated using AH Plus (AH; Dentsply DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany), MTA Fillapex (MTAF; Angelus, Londrina, Brazil), and WellRoot ST (WRST; Vericom, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea); 0.1% red Rhod-2 dye (Chemodex, St Gallen, Switzerland) was added to the sealers. After storage for 3 weeks (37°C, 100% humid), the following sealer combination subgroups were created (the sealer used during the primary root canal treatment/the sealer used during the retreatment, n = 8): AH/AH, AH/MTAF, and AH/WRST; MTAF/AH, MTAF/MTAF, and MTAF/WRST; and WRST/AH, WRST/MTAF, and WRST/WRST. Green Fluo-3 dye (0.1%) was added to the sealers during retreatment. Sealer penetration depths were measured at 8 points and averaged, and the ratio of the retreatment sealer to the initial sealer was recorded as the mean tubule penetration depth ratio in the first technique, whereas the percentage of the circumferential penetration area ratios of the retreatment and initial sealers was calculated in the second technique. Statistical analyses were performed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Kruskal-Wallis, and Mann-Whitney U tests.

RESULTS

The mean penetration depth of AH and MTFA was found to be higher at the coronal third region in the control groups (P < .05). Both methods showed a significant difference among the groups at the coronal and median regions (P < .05). The AH/WRST, MTAH/AH, MTAF/MTAF, MTAF/WRSTS, and WRST/WRST groups showed deeper tubule penetration (first technique, P = .01). Both techniques showed that the penetration depth of the sealers was the same at the apical region (P > .05), whereas a difference was found among the techniques at the coronal and median regions. The sealers used in the previous root canal treatment limited the penetration depth of the sealers used during the retreatment process (P < .05). When MTAF was used as the initial sealer, the penetration depth of the second sealer did not change, whereas if WRST was the initial sealer, the penetration depth of the sealers at the median and apical regions is negatively affected during the retreatment process (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Previous root canal treatment affects the penetration depth of calcium silicate-based sealers. The use of AH Plus and MTA Fillapex during the retreatment process showed an advantage. Both measurement techniques showed similar performances at the apical region, whereas the results varied at the coronal and midcoronal regions; therefore, a more stable sealer penetration measurement technique is still necessary.

Assessment of Bioceramic Sealer Retreatability and Its Influence on Force and Torque Generation

This study assesses the retreatability of TotalFill bioceramic (TFBC) and AH Plus (AHP) sealers and their impact on retreatment force and torque. Twenty-six premolar teeth with single oval canals were instrumented, obturated using the matched gutta-percha cone technique with one of the tested sealers, and then temporized. After a 6-month incubation at 37 °C and 100% humidity, the canals were retreated with the XP Shaper system. During retreatment, the generated force and torque were measured. Micro-CT scanning was run before and after the retreatment procedure to analyze the remaining obturating materials in the canals. The apically directed maximum force in AHP was higher than that in TFBC. The coronally directed maximum force and the maximum torque were comparable between the groups. A higher amount of remaining obturating materials was found in the AHP compared to that in the TFBC. Based on these findings, endodontic sealer had an influence on retreatability, and the TFBC showed less remaining obturating materials and lower retreatment forces in the apical direction compared to the AHP in extracted teeth with oval canals.

The effect of four different intracanal medicaments on the push-out bond strength of root canal sealers

This study aimed to compare the effect of 4 different intracanal medicaments on the push-out bond strength of two sealers (AH Plus and MTA Fillapex). 100 single-rooted extracted premolar teeth were divided into 5 groups, with 20 samples in each group, one group being the control group. After cleaning and shaping procedures, the canals were filled with 4 different medicaments: calcium hydroxide, tri-antibiotic paste (TAP), Metapex, or Chlorhexidine (2%) gel for 2 weeks. Following this, the medicaments were rinsed away, and the samples in those sub-groups were obturated with gutta-percha/AH Plus or MTA Fillapex sealers. After 2 weeks of incubation, a 2-mm-thick middle section from each root was evaluated to test push-out strength. The obtained data were tabulated, and appropriate statistical analysis was performed (two-way ANOVA and LSD test). When comparing the average values, the bond strength values of AH Plus were significantly higher than those of MTA Fillapex (p<0.05) in all medicament groups. Based on the findings, we concluded that AH Plus had comparatively higher bond strength than MTA Fillapex. We also observed that AH Plus had higher bond strength in the presence of calcium hydroxide, whereas MTA Fillapex in the presence of Chlorhexidine. A comparison of the push-out bond strength shows that irrespective of the root canal segment or the final irrigant used, AH Plus showed higher values among all groups. The limitation of the current study was that the effect of TAP on the bond strength of endodontic sealers was not negative.

Bone repair in defects filled with AH Plus sealer and different concentrations of MTA: a study in rat tibiae

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effects on bone repair of different concentrations of mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) added to AH Plus.

Materials and Methods

Bone tissue reactions were evaluated in 30 rats (Rattus norvegicus) after 7 and 30 days. In the AH + MTA10, AH + MTA20, and AH + MTA30 groups, defects in the tibiae were filled with AH Plus with MTA in proportions of 10%, 20% and 30%, respectively; in the MTA-FILL group, MTA Fillapex was used; and in the control group, no sealer was used. The samples were histologically analyzed to assess bone union and maturation. The Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were performed for multiple pairwise comparisons (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

At the 7-day time point, AH + MTA10 was superior to MTA-FILL with respect to bone union, and AH + MTA20 was superior to MTA-FILL with respect to bone maturity (p < 0.05). At the 30-day time point, both the AH + MTA10 and AH + MTA20 experimental sealers were superior not only to MTA-FILL, but also to AH + MTA30 with respect to both parameters (p < 0.05). The results of the AH + MTA10 and AH + MTA20 groups were superior to those of the control group for both parameters and experimental time points (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The results suggest the potential benefit of using a combination of these materials in situations requiring bone repair.

Effect of calcium silicate-based endodontic sealer on the retention of fiber posts cemented at different time intervals

Objective

To evaluate the effect of BC HiFlow, a new calcium silicate-based endodontic sealer, compared with a resin epoxy-based sealer after 2 different times of cementation on the pull-out bond strength of glass-fiber–reinforced composite posts cemented with a self-adhesive resin cement (RelyX Unicem).

Methodology

Sixty human maxillary central incisors were decoronated, prepared and obturated with gutta-percha and sealer. Roots were distributed into 5 groups according to the sealer and time of post cementation: (1) AH Plus sealer with immediate post fixation, (2) BC HiFlow with immediate post fixation, (3) AH Plus and post fixation after 7 days, (4) BC HiFlow and post fixation after 7 days, and (5) fiber post fixation in canals obturated with gutta-percha only (no sealer). After 1 week of post cementation, the pull-out test was performed and the failure mode was examined under a digital microscope. Data were analyzed using ANOVA followed by Tukey's post hoc and t tests (p < .05).

Results

With immediate post cementation, AH Plus group showed significantly higher pull-out retentive strength than the BC HiFlow and control groups (p = .009 and p < .001, respectively). There was no significant difference between the groups when the posts were cemented 7 days after obturation (p = .726). The time of post cementation had a significant influence on the canals obturated with AH Plus (p = .003). The time did not significantly affect the canals obturated with BC HiFlow (p = .289). The prominent type of failure was mixed mode in all groups.

Conclusion

BC HiFlow sealer did not affect the pull-out bond strength of glass-fiber–reinforced composite posts cemented with a self-adhesive resin cement immediately after or 7 days after obturation. For immediate post cementation, AH Plus increased the pull-out bond in comparison to BC HiFlow.

Minimal Dentinal Tubule Penetration of Endodontic Sealers in Warm Vertical Compaction by Direct Detection via SEM Analysis

Sealer staining using rhodamine B dye to investigate the penetration depth of endodontic sealers was proven unsuitable for this purpose. This study aimed to investigate the sealer penetration depth into dentinal tubules by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Root canals of 52 human upper central incisors were instrumented using the ProTaper Gold NiTi system (Dentsply Sirona, York, PA, USA) up to size F3. After irrigation with sodium hypochlorite and citric acid combined with ultrasonic activation, the root canals were either filled using the epoxy resin sealer AH Plus (Dentsply Sirona) or the calcium silicate-based sealer Total Fill BC Sealer HiFlow (TFHF, FKG Dentaire, La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland) by warm vertical compaction. Root slices of 1 mm thickness were obtained at 2 to 3, 5 to 6 and 8 to 9 mm from the apex. The root slices were investigated for sealer penetration into the dentinal tubules using SEM according to four root quadrants (buccal, mesial, oral, distal). Statistical analysis was performed by the Kruskal-Wallis test (p = 0.05) as data were not normally distributed according to the Shapiro-Wilk test. AH Plus penetrated significantly deeper into the dentinal tubules compared to TFHF at each root level (p < 0.05). Dentinal sealer penetration was deeper in the bucco-oral direction compared to the mesio-distal direction. AH Plus penetrated deeper into dentinal tubules than TFHF. Warm vertical compaction exerting high pressure on the root canal filling material is not able to press sealers deep into dentinal tubules as penetration depth values did not exceed a mean of 110 µm in SEM.

A Confocal Microscopic Study on Percentage Penetration of Different Sealers into Dentin

Context:

Three-dimensional seal of the root canal space has always been challenging. The incorporation of gutta-percha and sealer prevents microleakage by bacteria, ensuring a shielded root canal space. However, the penetration of sealer to various depths within the root canal has always been looked with curiosity.

Aims:

Thus, the present in vitro study was undertaken to evaluate the percentage and average depth of penetration of Endoflas F. S., AH Plus, and Epiphany sealers into dentinal tubules among the coronal, middle, and apical thirds of the roots following obturation with a lateral compaction technique using Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy.

Settings and Design:

The study is an in vitro randomized control trial.

Subjects and Methods:

Thirty sound central incisors were decoronated at the level of the cementoenamel junction. Working length determination was done followed by a meticulous cleaning, shaping, and under copious irrigation. The teeth were then randomly divided into three groups: Endoflas FS sealer, AH Plus sealer, and Epiphany sealer. On fluorescence treatment, the teeth were sectioned at the midpoint of coronal, middle, and apical third of each root and viewed under confocal laser scanning microscope.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The results were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and the significant difference between groups was analyzed with post hoc Tukey test.

Results:

Epiphany sealer provided with better percentage and depth penetration in comparison to Endoflas FS and AH Plus sealers. Furthermore, the coronal third of the root had better percentage and sealer penetration than the middle and apical thirds.

Conclusions:

Sealers tend to provide a firm bond between the tooth and the gutta-percha. They bind, lubricate, and seal the gutta-percha cones to fill the accessory canals. Within the limitations of this study, the superior flow and enhanced setting time Epihany sealers provide better percentage and depth of penetration than AH Plus and Endoflas FS.

Comparison of Sealing Ability of Bioceramic Sealer, AH Plus, and GuttaFlow in Conservatively Prepared Curved Root Canals Obturated with Single-Cone Technique: An In vitro Study

Background:

Inadequate obturation techniques of the root canal system have been found to be the most frequent reason of failure post root canal treatment. An ideal endodontic sealer should fulfill all ideal requisites. The present study aimed to compare apical sealing ability between bioceramic (BC) sealer, GuttaFlow, and AH Plus.

Methodology:

One hundred and twenty-five curved roots of maxillary and mandibular third molar teeth with fully formed apex were collected for this study. The root canals were cleaned and shaped using a standard single-cone preparation to file at the established working length and divided into five groups of 25 each. Dye leakage was carried out. Group A: with GP, using EndoSequence BC sealer with conventional with 4% gutta-percha (Brasseler USA, Savannah, Georgia, USA); Group B: with ceramic coated with 4% gutta-percha (Brasseler USA, Savannah, Georgia, USA); Group C: with GP, using AH Plus sealer (Dentsply, De-Trey Konstanz, Germany) with 4% gutta-percha; Group D: with GuttaFlow bioseal (Roeko-Coltène/Whaledent, Langenau, Germany) with 4% Gutta-percha; and Group E is a negative control group. Statistical analysis was done using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software and Student's unpaired t-test.

Results:

The group AH Plus showed more leakage values than the GuttaFlow group and of two groups of BC sealer and negative control. Student's unpaired t-test disclosed no significant difference (P < 0.05) between the groups.

Conclusion:

None of the sealers used in the study could completely seal the apical foramen to have a fluid-tight seal.

A micro-computed tomographic evaluation of retreatability of BioRoot RCS in comparison with AH Plus

This study compared the retreatability of filling material from canals filled with BioRoot RCS (Septodont, Saint-Maur-des-Fosses, France) and AH Plus (Dentsply DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany) combined with gutta-percha using micro-computed tomography for evaluation. Thirty-four mandibular premolars were divided into two groups according to the sealer used. Thirty days after obturation, canals were retreated with a ProTaper Universal retreatment system (Dentsply Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) followed by passive ultrasonic irrigation (PUI). The time taken for retreatment was recorded. The roots were scanned after obturation, after retreatment and after PUI. Data were analysed using the Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests. Canals filled with BioRoot RCS exhibited significantly less remaining filling material than canals filled with AH Plus (P < 0.05). The addition of PUI resulted in a significant decrease in the residual material in both groups (P < 0.05). A significantly shorter retreatment time was reported for the AH Plus group than the BioRoot RCS group (P < 0.05).

Debunking the Concept of Dentinal Tubule Penetration of Endodontic Sealers: Sealer Staining with Rhodamine B Fluorescent Dye Is an Inadequate Method

The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of rhodamine B dye staining of an epoxy resin sealer (AH Plus) and calcium-silicate-based sealers (Total Fill BC Sealer, BioRoot RCS) to represent the penetration depth of the sealers into dentinal tubules after root canal obturation. In a three-step process, (1) leaching of rhodamine B from sealers into a buffer solution, (2) passive penetration of leached rhodamine B into dentinal tubules, and (3) conformity of rhodamine B penetration assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), and sealer penetration assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), in root-canal-filled teeth, were evaluated. Rhodamine B dye massively leached out of Total Fill BC Sealer and BioRoot RCS into the phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). A pinkish coloration of AH Plus was found after contact with PBS. Leached rhodamine B dye passively penetrated dentinal tubules from all three sealers when placed on root dentin. No correlation was observed between sealer penetration in SEM and rhodamine B penetration in CLSM. Staining of sealers using rhodamine B is an inadequate method with which to evaluate sealer penetration depth into dentinal tubules, as it overestimates the penetration of sealers into root dentin tubules.

Management of apical periodontitis using WaveOne gold reciprocating files, single-cone endodontic approach: A case series author

Introduction

The endodontic treatment of apical periodontitis (AP) without surgical intervention presents a unique clinical challenge. This case series aimed to test the changes in size of periapical lesion scale and healing in post-treatment of AP by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) using Waveobe Gold reciprocating file with single cone treatment approach.

Presentation of cases

A total of 20 patients with 20 teeth (9 M, six premolars, one canine, and four incisors) with AP underwent CBCT scanning before and after non-surgical root canal treatment (NSRCT) or non-surgical retreatment (NSReTx). Standardized root canal chemo-debridement and instrumentation with WaveOne Gold (WOG) reciprocating files was used. The canals were obturated using epoxy-based sealer (AH Plus) with a single WaveOne Gold conform fit gutta-percha cone technique. After one year, assessment with CBCT images showed that the success and healing rate using (AH Plus) with single cone technique was very high.

Discussion

Apical periodontitis is an inflammatory disease at the root end of teeth. Following NSRCT or NSReTx, evaluation of lesion size by radiograph has been essential to the evaluation of lesions post-operatively. In addition to the absence of symptoms, complete restitution of the lamina dura and periodontal ligament (PDL) space on post-operative radiograph has been considered the optimal outcome success.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, NSRCT or NSReTx using reciprocating WaveOne Gold and single cone with AH plus sealer resulted in healing of AP as assessed by CBCT.

•

This case series report consider the first clinical trial assessing the outcome of Non-surgical root canal treatment on healing of apical periodontitis by CBCT in different tooth types with primary apical periodontitis without endodontic treatment and post apical periodontitis with inadequate apical filling.

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Within the limitations of this study, NSRCT or NSReTx using reciprocating WaveOne Gold files and single cone with AH plus sealer resulted in healing of AP as assessed by CBCT.

The presence of smear layer affects the antimicrobial action of root canal sealers

AIM

To assess the chemical and microstructural characteristics of dentine after the use of two irrigation protocols and correlate this with the antimicrobial properties of hydraulic calcium silicate cement (HCSC) sealers and changes to the dentine structure/chemistry after sealer placement.

METHODOLOGY

Two irrigation protocols - Protocol A using 2% NaOCl used 5 mL/5 min and Protocol B with 2% NaOCl (5 mL/5 min) followed by 17% EDTA (5 mL/3 min) - were used to prepare dentine. The chemical and microstructural changes following irrigation were assessed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy (n = 5) on dentine obtained from the mid-root and coronal parts of extracted human teeth. Four sealers (AH Plus, BioRoot, MTA Fillapex, TotalFill) were characterized by SEM/EDS (n = 3). The ability of the sealers to eradicate intratubular Enterococcus faecalis biofilms was assessed by live/dead dye and confocal laser scanning microscopy to measure the percentage of living cells. The effect of combined irrigation and root filling on dentine was assessed by SEM and EDS analysis (n = 5). Statistical analysis was undertaken using one-way anova and a number of post hoc tests to detect intergroup differences. The F-test was used for comparison of variances in the microbiology testing.

RESULTS

The use of NaOCl alone left the smear layer intact, with traces of chlorine remaining on dentine. The use of BioRoot sealer restored the calcium levels of dentine which had been depleted by the irrigation with EDTA. BioRoot exhibited antimicrobial properties against intratubular bacteria even in the presence of smear layer (Protocol A). Smear layer removal improved the bactericidal effect of all sealers and Ca²⁺ leaching. The use of a chelating agent was important for the intratubular sealer penetration for AH Plus but not the other sealers.

CONCLUSION

The removal of smear layer was necessary for penetration of AH Plus into the dentinal tubules. BioRoot was a more effective sealer in reducing the bacterial load in the dentinal tubules than the other materials tested and the presence of smear layer did not affect its activity.

The effect of two endodontic sealers and interval before post-preparation and cementation on the bond strength of fiber posts

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effect of different endodontic sealers (epoxy resin-based and bioceramic-based) and the time of post-cementation on the bond strength of a fiber post cemented with resin cement.

METHODS

Forty human premolars were instrumented and divided into 4 groups. According to the type of sealer and the time of post-cementation: AH-IM (AH Plus, post-cemented immediately after root canal treatment), SP-IM (iRoot SP, post-cemented immediately after root canal treatment), AH-OW (AH Plus, post-cementation after one week), and SP-OW (iRoot SP, post-cementation after one week). In each group, the samples were submitted to push-out test, and failure mode was assessed. Levene's test, one-way ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis analysis were applied for statistical analysis (α = 5%).

RESULTS

The highest mean push-out bond strength was obtained from the SP-IM group in the apical part (10.45 ± 5.15MPa), while the lowest was observed in samples from the AH-OW group in the middle part (2.63 ± 1.54 MPa). One-way ANOVA showed that within the same root region, the time of post-cementation had a negative influence on the bonding strength in the SP groups in the middle and apical portion (P<0.05), however, when comparing the effect of type of sealers on bonding strength between the OW groups or IM groups within the same root region, no significant difference was observed regardless of the post cementation time (P>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The bond strength of the fiber post was higher when the post was cemented immediately after root canal treatment when the bioceramic sealer was applied.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The correct choice of an endodontic sealer and the proper time of post-cementation may help to obtain the best quality of post-and-core restoration.

Data on the push-out bond strength of three different root canal treatment sealers

It is of interest to document data on the push - out bond strength of three different root canal treatment sealers such as MTA Fillapex (MTA based), AH plus (Epoxy Resin based) and Apexit plus (Calcium hydroxide based). Forty-five freshly extracted human maxillary central incisors with closed apices were selected randomly. All the teeth were sectioned at cement-enamel junction using a diamond disc before starting the root canal preparation to obtain root length of 12 mm. All teeth were instrumented using ProTaper rotary instruments. 5.25% sodium hypochlorite was used for irrigation between instrumentation followed by 17% EDTA, and final rinse by saline. Obturation procedures were done using the gutta-percha single cone technique. 45 roots were randomly assigned to 3 groups of 15 for obturation with gutta-percha cones and 1 of the 3 sealers (n=15). Group 1 = MTA Fillapex sealer + gutta-percha: Group 2 = AH plus sealer + gutta-percha:Group 3 = Apexit plus sealer + gutta-percha. The roots were sectioned horizontally to its canal into 3 sections: Coronal, Mid-root and Apical-thirds using a precision cutting machine, with a thickness of 3 mm. The specimens were subjected to push-out test using a universal testing machine that carried a plunger. The loading speed was 1mm/min until the dislodgment of the material occurred. The independent t- test was used to compare the mean scores among the study groups. The level of significance was set at 5% for all tests. After the push-out bond strength test, each sample was evaluated under stereomicroscope (40x) to determine the mode of failure and recorded as one of the following categories: adhesive, cohesive or mixed. The observations thus obtained were subjected to statistical analysis using Student - t test. AH Plus showed significantly higher values than MTA Fillapex and Apexit plus (p < 0.05). Amongst the push-out bond strength AH Plus sealer showed significant difference from MTA Fillapex and Apexit plus groups. There was no significant difference between MTA Fillapex and Apexit plus however (p>0.05). Microscopic analysis displayed that the majority of the modes were cohesive failures for AH Plus, adhesive failures for MTA Fillapex and mixed failures for Apexit Plus. . Thus, AH Plus had the highest bond strength and MTA Fillapex had the lowest bond strength to root dentin. Mean push-out bond strength values were ranked as follows; AH Plus >Apexit Plus > MTA Fillapex. Microscopic analysis displayed that the majority of the modes were cohesive failures of AH Plus, adhesive failures for MTA Fillapex and mixed failures for Apexit Plus.

Evaluation of push-out bond strength of BioRoot RCS and AH Plus after using different irrigants: An in vitro study

Aim:

The aim of this study was to compare push-out bond strength of root canal spaces filled with AH-Plus and BioRoot RCS after using different irrigants.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty single-rooted teeth were decoronated and endodontically treated by crown-down technique using ProTaper Universal rotary files progressively till F4 (40/0.06). Samples were divided into two groups according to the sealer (n = 40): Group A = BioRoot RCS, Group B = AH Plus, further subdivided into four subgroups according to irrigation protocol (n = 10): Group 1A, 1B – 0.9% saline, Group 2A, 2B – 5.25% NaOCl + 17% EDTA, Group 3A, 3B– 17% EDTA +2% chlorhexidine, and Group 4A, 4B – 17% EDTA + 3% green tea extract. Samples were obturated with sealers and prepared for push-out test with root slices of 2 mm thickness using universal testing machine. Data were statistically analyzed using two-way ANOVA, Bonferroni's post hoc analysis, and independent Student's t-test.

Results:

BioRoot RCS exhibited significantly higher push-out bond strength (n < 0.001). The interaction between irrigants and sealer showed higher bond strength for BioRoot RCS when 17% EDTA+ green tea was used.

Conclusion:

Within the limitation of the study, it was concluded that bond strength of a sealer was influenced by the irrigants used.

Comparative evaluation of push-out bond strength of gutta-percha using different sealers with lateral condensation and thermoplasticized obturation technique: An in vitro study

Aim:

The study aimed to evaluate and compare the push-out bond strength of gutta-percha using AH plus, Endosequence BC, and Roeko seal sealer with lateral condensation and thermoplasticized obturation technique.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty single-rooted premolars were instrumented and samples were randomly assigned into three groups based on the sealer used (Group A-AH Plus, Group B-Endosequence BC, Group C-Roeko Seal) which were further divided into two subgroups-A1, B1, and C1 were obturated by the lateral condensation technique and A2, B2, and C2 using the thermoplasticized technique. Each sample was sectioned horizontally using a diamond disc, representing apical, middle, and coronal thirds, respectively. Root segments were then mounted on an acrylic block, and push-out bond strength of each sample was tested using the universal testing machine.

Statistical Analysis:

One-way ANOVA, Tukey's test, and unpaired t-test.

Results:

For mandibular premolar teeth with a single canal using lateral condensation technique, the highest push-out bond strength was found in the A1 group (7.30 ± 0.61 MPa) at the apical level. While using the thermoplasticized technique, the highest push-out bond strength was found in the B2 group (3.71 ± 0.81 MPa) at the apical level. Overall results showed that the lateral condensation technique showed significantly higher push-out bond strength than thermoplasticized technique (P < 0.028).

Conclusions:

The push-out bond strength of AH Plus sealer was higher than the Endosequence BC sealer and Roeko seal sealer. Lateral condensation technique has shown higher push-out bond strength than the thermoplasticized technique.