Characterization Interface of root dentine to root canal sealers interface of selected root canal sealers

Available online 25 November 2013

 

Abstract

Objective

Root canal sealers can interact physically or chemically with dentine. The aim of this study was to characterize the dentine-root canal sealer interface of experimental sealers based on Portland cement using an epoxy-based vehicle in comparison to an epoxy resin sealer, AH Plus.

Methods

Root canals were biomechanically prepared and filled with either one of four experimental epoxy sealers containing Portland cement with micro and nano particles of either zirconium oxide or niobium oxide radiopacofers, or AH Plus. The dentine-sealer's interfaces were assessed by coronal penetration of fluorescent microspheres, the penetration of sealers labeled with Rhodamine B inside the dentine tubules (following obturation with gutta-percha and sealers using System B technique) assessed by confocal laser scanning microscopy, and the chemical characterization of dentine-sealers interface by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) line scans.

Results

No penetration of fluorescent microspheres at the root-dentine to sealer interface was recorded for all test materials. Sealers presented greater ability to penetrate within the dentinal tubules at the coronal and mid-root thirds. The experimental sealers containing radiopacifier nano particles exhibited a more homogeneous microstructure along the whole length of the canal. EDS-line scans results showed a migration of silicon and niobium into dentine. Peak overlap between zirconium and the phosphorous compromised the identification of the migration of the zirconium oxide into dentine.

Conclusions

All five sealers promoted coronal sealing. The experimental sealers exhibited promising characteristics and were comparable to AH Plus sealer. Elemental migration of the experimental sealers suggests material interaction with dentine which was not displayed by AH Plus.

Comments